KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 10 – National striker Safawi Rasid will remember Bishan Stadium in Singapore and December 9, 2021 for the hattrick he struck in Malaysia’s 4-0 win over Laos in a Group B match at AFF Suzuki Cup.
It warmed the hearts of Malaysians who watched the match live on television and also those who were at the stadium in the late afternoon match.
It was Malaysia’s second win in a row in the Asean Championships, having beaten Cambodia 3-1 in their first match.
The 24-year-old Safawi, who hails from Dungun, Terengganu and plays for Johor Darul Takzim (JDT) in the Malaysian League, was all smiles.
The glow on his face spoke of his delight in helping Malaysia win the match – a real morale and confidence booster before Malaysia face Vietnam at the same venue on Sunday (Dec 12).
Speaking at a post match conference, Safawi was a bundle of confidence and was quick to point out that he never ever claimed he was a “superstar” at any time in his professional football career.
“I never said I am superstar…you can check my past interviews. I thank Allah for giving me back my form. My teammates and my coaches also played a big role in getting me into shape. The three goals against Laos has reignited my desire and my confidence.
“It means a lot to me after my recent drop in form. So, I am naturally happy to have helped the team win.
“However, I am not getting carried away with the three goals against Laos as we still have tough matches ahead. Hopefully, I will be able to deliver again when we play Vietnam on Sunday,” said Safawi.
In the match against Laos, Safawi struck his first in the seventh minute and second in the 34th. He completed his hattrick on 80 minutes after Shahrul Saad had scored Malaysia’s third in the 78th minute.
With his three-goal blast against Laos, Safawi is the top scorer in this year’s AFF Suzuki Cup with four goals. He also scored a goal against Cambodia in Malaysia’s 3-1 win.
In the 2010 edition, Safee Sali won the Golden Boot with five goals.
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