In a closely contested opener of the Asian Rugby Championship – Emirates Edition, which serves as a qualifier for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, South Korea narrowly defeated Sri Lanka with a final score of 38-34 at the Racecourse International Stadium in Colombo yesterday (June 13).

This tournament is crucial in determining Asia’s second qualifier for the upcoming Rugby World Cup, with Japan having already secured their place through the world rankings. The event features four top-tier Asian rugby nations: Sri Lanka, South Korea, Hong Kong, and the United Arab Emirates.

Despite the loss, Sri Lanka delivered an impressive performance, going head-to-head with a strong South Korean side. Lasindu Karunaratne of Sri Lanka was named Player of the Match for his outstanding contribution on the field.

Sri Lanka is scheduled to face United Arab Emirates and Hong Kong in the remaining two matches of the series. The tournament, organized by Asia Rugby, features the continent’s top four teams selected based on performance and aims to determine the final Asian representative for the global stage.

The opening match drew notable attendance, including Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Hon. Sunil Kumara Gamage, who witnessed the action live.

Stay tuned to Sri Lankan Sports TV for full coverage of the qualifiers and exclusive content from the ground.

Colombo, June 11 – The Sri Lanka Football Federation (FFSL) is set to take disciplinary action against a national team squad member following a controversial post-match incident during the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers against Chinese Taipei.

After Sri Lanka’s 3-1 historic win against 166th-ranked Chinese Taipei on June 10, an unused substitute player, Mohamed Thilham, was seen displaying a shirt bearing the message “PRAY FOR FREE PALESTINE”. The incident occurred during the post-match celebrations at the Colombo Race Course Stadium.

FFSL President Jaswar Umar, responding to media queries, stated that the act was not sanctioned by the federation, calling it “an unnecessary action that violates international football disciplinary norms.”

“This was not something done with the knowledge or approval of the FFSL. Even though it happened after the match, it is still an act that goes against the FIFA Code of Conduct. It was a politically sensitive message displayed on an international platform, which we cannot condone,” said Jaswar.

While many in the public and online community have expressed solidarity with the player’s message, the FFSL is viewing the matter strictly from a governance standpoint.

Thilham, a talented youngster from a remote region and relatively new to the national setup, has shown great promise. However, the FFSL President stressed that

“no personal motivations or emotions can justify violations of international sports protocols.”

Editorial Note:

While some fans hailed Tilham’s act as courageous and principled, others criticized the Sri Lankan Sports TV. Our own Sri Lankan Sports TV team had previously hidden the slogan in our match coverage out of respect for international sporting protocols and to safeguard the player’s future. However, it appears that a section of social media users intentionally spotlighted the statement, which may have contributed to the federation’s decision.

Colombo: The Sri Lanka I-League, hailed as the nation’s premier club football showdown, kicks off with a mission to redefine elite football on the island. Featuring eight top-tier football clubs from across the country, the I-League promises high-octane action, drama, and moments of brilliance as teams clash for national glory.

This year’s tournament introduces a dynamic two-stage format designed to test skill, resilience, and strategy. In the first round, teams are split into two groups where each club competes in three crucial matches. The top two from each group advance to the electrifying play-offs, paving the road to the Grand Final—the ultimate showdown where champions rise.

Participating Teams:

• Renown Football Club
• Red Star Sports Club
• Blue Star Football Club
• New Star SC
• Sounders Sports Club
• Java Lane Sports Club
• Moragasmulla SC
• Maligawatta United SC

All matches will be held at the Sugathadasa Stadium, providing a centralized battleground that maximizes fan engagement and showcases footballing talent under one iconic venue.

The second round features a knockout-style play-off format:

• First Qualifier: Group champions lock horns for the first Grand Final slot.
• Eliminator: Runners-up fight for survival.
• Second Qualifier: A last chance duel to decide the final Grand Finalist.
• Grand Final: A title clash where the best of the best face off.

This prestigious tournament not only fosters competitive football but also reflects a new era for Sri Lankan club football, where professionalism, performance, and passion take center stage.

Stay tuned to Sri Lankan Sports TV and our digital platforms for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes stories, and expert insights throughout the tournament. Let the battle for the crown begin—Where Champions Rise!