Former National Goalkeeper Ibrahim Ifrah Areef (Ifra) Passes Away at 36

Sports

Ibrahim Ifrah Areef (Ifra), former Maldives national football team goalkeeper and member of the historic 2008 SAFF Championship-winning squad, has passed away tonight at the age of 36.

Ifra was admitted to ADK Hospital on Monday after suffering a hemorrhagic stroke that caused a brain hemorrhage. He underwent surgery the same evening, but as doctors were unable to completely clear the bleeding, he was placed in a medically induced coma. Despite efforts to reduce brain swelling, his condition remained critical until his passing.

Regarded as one of the most talented goalkeepers of his generation, Ifra began his career at Club Valencia before rising to prominence with Maziya, where he quickly established himself as the nation’s most promising young keeper. He captained the Maldives U-19 national team and represented the country at the U-23 level in the Asian Games, South Asian Games, and Olympic qualifiers, earning widespread recognition for his performances.

Ifra first joined the senior national team in 2007 and was part of the squad during its greatest triumph, the 2008 SAFF Championship, serving as reserve goalkeeper behind Imran Mohamed and Hassan Rameez (Timotee).

At club level, Ifra left a lasting legacy, playing for top Maldivian sides including New Radiant, Victory SC, BG Sports, and TC Sports, contributing to some of their most memorable achievements.

The Maldivian football community is mourning the loss of a player remembered not only for his skill and leadership, but also for his dedication to the game.