The 23-year-old Qatar international, who played the Maurice Revello Tournament 2014, has been handed the "Asian player of the year" award on this Monday by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
« Akram Afif, the future of Qatar », was the title of our article on September 2017. More than two years later, the 23-year-old attacking midfielder has more than met the expectations : he's the star of his national team and as well one of the best talents in Asia.
The "Asian player of the year" award has been handed on Monday to the Qatari and Al-Sadd star (currently loaned out by Villarreal) during a ceremony organized at Hong-Kong by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
Absent from the ceremony due to his participation at the Gulf Cup with his national team, Afif was represented by his coach at Al-Sadd, Xavi. The FC Barcelona legend has been full of praise for the Qatari international (48 caps, 14 goals), who played the Maurice Revello Tournament in 2014. « It's totally deserved. He made differences with the national team but as well with us at Al-Sadd. It's a pleasure to coach him, he's an unbelievable talent. [...] There are no limits for him. He can play everywhere but it depends on him, his mentality and his ambition. He has everything to play football."
This trophy caps a fantastic 2019 year for Afif who helped Qatar to win their first ever Asian Cup title on last February. This historic crown was marked by the Afif's talent. The latter has established a new record in the Asian Cup history by delivering 10 assists. Outstanding !
In addition to his fantastic performances at the Asian Cup, Afif helped Al-Sadd to reach the Asian Champions League semi-finals as he netted 5 goals in 11 games.
Amayes Brahmi
Crédits photo : AFC