Arif Aiman turns provider for 'heritage teammates'
KUALA LUMPUR: While the spotlight was on new heritage players, the Brazil-born Joao Figueiredo and Argentina-born Rodrigo Holgado, local boy Arif Aiman Hanapi shone just as much in Malaysia's sensational 4-0 victory over Vietnam in an Asian Cup qualifier last night.
The nippy 23-year-old winger became an all important provider — with two assists that led to two of Harimau Malaya's goals.
More than 50,000 fans at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil saw Arif set up the scoring chances for Holgado and the England-born La'Vere Corbin Ong in the second half, with maturity and skill on par with heritage or naturalised players.
The energetic Arif was a constant thorn in the side of the Vietnamese defense, as he added another dimension to Malaysia's frontline.
Arif's agility created space while his vision and composure in delivering the ball to his teammates make him a key player in Harimau Malaya.
While Figueiredo and Holgado have added bite to the Malaysia attack, their dynamic link with Arif proves that the blend of local talent and heritage players can work well in the national team.
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