FAM has not yet disclosed the reason behind the decision. Dhagandey had also not participated in the two friendlies against Philippines over the past two weeks. He had remained in Malé to attend some family issues, according to sources. However, at the time, FAM had maintained that Dhagandey would take part in the WCQ. It is speculated that the decision for Dhagandey to not participate in the match is because he was unable to practice with the team, in addition to the new defensive strategy the team has planned for the match against China. Dhagandey returned to the Maldives last week after several successive matches with PDRM FA in the Malaysian League.