New Zealand made history at the 2024 FANCA Nations Muslim World Cup held in Lautoka by winning every grade final. The U17 team kicked off the nation’s success by claiming the youth title, which was followed by victories in grades 35, 40, and 50, as well as in the Premier finals.
In the Premier match, Mohammed Shazil Ali and Ishtiyaq Shah were instrumental in securing the win against Canada, showcasing an impressive performance.
While the competition saw strong participation, the local Fiji Masters represented the only home team in the final day’s action. The much-anticipated Fiji Premier team, however, faced disappointment as they were eliminated in the semifinals, suffering a narrow 6-5 defeat to Canada in a penalty shootout.
This unprecedented achievement by New Zealand highlights the growing talent and competitive spirit within the region, demonstrating that the future of the sport is bright. It also underscores the importance of fostering strong representations at international events to inspire local players and teams for future competitions.
Overall, New Zealand’s triumph is not just a significant sports achievement but also an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the region, suggesting a promising future for Islamic football on the world stage.
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