Defending champions of the 2021 Digicel Muslim Inter-District Championship Maigania got off to a perfect start.

The team edged Sabeto 1-0 at Prince Charles Park, Nadi on Wednesday night after a scoreless first half.

Adeel Ali was the toast of the side with his 50th minute screamer.

Striker Afran Ali also showed class despite his height.

Referee Deepak Raj flashed seven yellow cards in the tense match.

Maigania captain Asif Khan said: “I’m happy with the good start and I hope we continue like this throughout the tournament.

“All the best to our boys and I urge the fans to turn up to support the annual event.”

Maigania won the title in 2019 and are in Pool A with Makoi, Var¬avu of Ba, and Sabeto.

Sabeto captain Mohammed Zinal said: “Hard luck to our team as we played well.

“We will not be disheartened as we still have two games to play.”

The tournament resumes today with the finals on Sunday.

A total of 16 teams are competing in the tournament.

Fiji Muslim Sports Association chairman Javed Ahmad expects a good turnout.

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