Irumathi FC defeated defending champions Vela Sports Club 2–0 in the opening match of the Eydhafushi Cup 2025, held at Eydhafushi Stadium.

The prestigious trophy was displayed before kick-off, setting the stage for an exciting start to the tournament. Both sides played evenly through much of the first half, creating several chances but failing to convert. Vela’s foreign player Akhror Umarjanov tested Irumathi’s goalkeeper Abdussadaad Adam with a free-kick, while Abdulla Jaushan Ahmed forced a fine save from Vela keeper Mifdad Ahmed.

Just before half-time, Irumathi broke the deadlock with a penalty corner, giving the hosts a 1–0 lead. Early in the second half, Afrah Abdul Aziz doubled the advantage with a goal from a corner, sealing the victory and three points for Irumathi.

This year’s Eydhafushi Cup features six teams divided into two groups. Group A includes Irumathi FC, Vela SC, and Team Middle East, while Group B features Huss Songun FC, CC Sports Club, and Aajeelakah Eydhafushi Football Academy.

The Eydhafushi Cup, now in its fifth edition, is one of the most popular tournaments on the island. Vela SC, who won last year’s title, will now face extra pressure to advance from the group stage after their opening defeat.