Asian team withdraws from competition to avoid relegation.

Maldivian football has been rocked by a highly controversial incident related to the relegation battle in the final round of the season.

Green Streets were handed a 0-2 defeat, but it was enough to keep them from being relegated.

In the final round of the Maldives National League on February 4th, Club Valencia completed their task by defeating their opponent 2-0. However, the result was not enough to give them control over their own destiny. To avoid relegation, Valencia must wait for their direct rival, Green Streets, to lose by at least four goals in their final match.

That scenario didn't happen the following day. Green Streets were unable to field the required number of players at kick-off, resulting in their match being forfeited. According to the league rules, the result was a 0-2 defeat for Green Streets, and the victory was awarded to New Radiant Sports Club.

Club Valencia were relegated after losing to Green Streets on goal difference, with both teams level on points. This marks the second time in eight years that Club Valencia have been relegated from the top league in the Maldives. The team was previously relegated in 2018 before earning promotion back to the top division after winning the Second Division title in 2020.

Valencia were relegated after their rivals withdrew from the competition.

In a statement released following the incident, Club Valencia expressed deep concern, stating that Green Streets' actions showed signs of deliberately exploiting the rules of the competition, possibly even match-fixing. The team called on the Football Association of Maldives (FAM) to conduct a thorough investigation to protect the rights of the club, its players, and other participating teams. Valencia also stated its readiness to take the matter to FIFA and AFC if necessary.

Conversely, Green Streets denied all allegations. In an official statement, the club asserted that there was no basis or evidence to suggest they intentionally abandoned the game.

Green Streets urged the media and the public to refrain from speculation and to await the official conclusion from FAM, emphasizing their commitment to integrity and the values ​​of Maldivian football.

The results continue to spark intense controversy in Maldivian football circles. Many argue that the final round matches should have been held simultaneously to avoid controversial scenarios that could affect the fairness and transparency of the tournament.

Source: https://znews.vn/doi-bong-chau-a-bo-cuoc-de-tru-hang-post1626442.html