Playing for the national team since 1999, well-loved goalkeeper Imran told Haveeru that supporters play a most significant role in the victory of a team. "This is one of the most important competitions that the Maldivian national team is taking part in. Supporters' contribution is also just as important when we face such a competition. So all the supporters must unite and support us through," he said. Imran said that playing in the home country offered a significant advantage over the other team; the advantage of having your team supporters in abundance. He said that he was confident the Maldivian national team would get to enjoy this advantage. Since the champion of this tournament is granted placement in the Asian Cup, this could be the biggest opportunity for the Maldives to compete in the biggest Asian football tournament. Eight teams will play in the Challenge Cup, which is scheduled to begin Monday evening. Myanmar is in Group A with Maldives, Kyrgyzstan and Palestine, whilst Afghanistan is in Group B with Philippines, Laos and Turkmenistan. Matches of the tournament will be played at the National Stadium in capital Male and at the Hithadhoo Zone Stadium in the southernmost city of Addu.