Battle of the Masters 2025

A.M.M.Muzammil
Zahira Veterans triumphantly hosted the long-awaited and highly coveted football tournament, the Battle of the Masters 2025, on Sunday, February 9th, at Zahira College grounds in Colombo.
This year’s edition was impeccably organized under the leadership of Mr. Shiraj Salley, the Project Chairman. The tournament brought together eight schools from across the island: Zahira College Colombo, Hameed Al Husseinie College, Zahira College Gampola, St. Peter’s College, St. Benedict’s College, Royal College, De Mazenod College, and St. Andrew’s School in Jaffna.
The event stood as a powerful testament to the timeless adage, “Old soldiers never die; they simply fade away.” What unfolded before our eyes was nothing short of brilliance—the revered “Masters” of their respective teams graced the field with their signature styles, exuding both finesse and agility akin to leopards. Their indomitable spirit, unwavering resilience, and sheer unflappability remain unscathed by time, proving that their legacy will never fade.
Nearly every team was a galaxy of legendary players—once proud bearers of the national jersey—who played with the same passion and sportsmanship that defined their prime. The atmosphere was electric as spectators reveled in a whirlwind of emotions, cheering fervently for their teams and witnessing a spectacle that blended nostalgia with excellence.
St. Benedict’s College emerged as the Plate Champion, while Hameed Al Husseinie College secured the runners-up position in a thrilling final and St. Peter’s College became Plate Runners Up.
In the final of the “Battle of Masters 2025”, Zahira College Colombo’s Star-studded line up which comprised past year’s national players like Naina Mohammed, Hassan Roomy, Mohammed Imran and Fazlur Rahman displayed their exceptional talents and outsmarted Hameed Al Husseinie College. Both teams scored 3-3 in the penalty shootout. The final outcome was then determined by a coin toss, which favored Zahira College.
The Best Player of the Final and the Golden Boot award were presented to the outstanding Aliyar of Hameed Al Husseinie College, while the Golden Glove was awarded to the talented Ifham of Zahira College, Colombo, for his exceptional goalkeeping skills.
The event was honored by the presence of Mr. Farhan Malahir, Financial Director of The Fashion Store, who attended as the Chief Guest. Among the distinguished attendees were members of the Board of Governors, Mr. Nuzri Mansoor and Mr. Jaufer Us Sadiq, along with OBA President Mr. Cassim, Mr. Hussain Azad, President of Zahira Veterans, and Mr. Shiraj Salley, the Project Chairman. The ceremony was further enriched by the presence of valued sponsors and well-wishers, whose generous contributions played a major role in the event’s success.