7-
ALI ASHFAAG
|
 |
| Club |
New Radiant |
| Shirt
No |
7 |
| Position |
Striker |
| Date
of Birth |
September 6, 1985 |
| Nationality |
Maldivian |
| Height |
5' 9" |
| Weight |
69 KG |
Profile
Ashfaaq
has emerged as one of the most exciting and precocious player
in the Maldives.
After he
set the game alight following a series of outstanding performances
at Inter School Football competition, it seemed that he would
get the offers from the major clubs.
He had earned
the nickname “Dha’ngadey”, meaning Iron Man,
due to the physical strength he shows while playing.
Ashfaaq
began his career in Club Valencia as a substitute player at
the age of 16 in 2001 POMIS Cup. His first ever goal was also
scored in this competition against a foreign club.
That goal
made him the youngest local goal scorer in the history of POMIS
Cup.
The most
successful year would be 2003 winning the Maldivian Footballer
of the year and the golden boot for netting 36 goals during
the season. This makes another record for him scoring the most
number of goals during the season.
During 2004,
he could not perform as well as 2003 but, he was the winner
of the golden boot.
“I
admit that my performance has deteriorated this season compared
to last two seasons.” He said regarding his performance
in ongoing season (2005).
"I
am having a cyst in my left leg and it's even difficult to walk.
I used to take pain killers these days" He added.
Up to date,
Ashfaag also carries the national record of highest scorer in
a single match for the National Team. He scored four goals in
2006 World Cup Qualifying against Mongolia in Male’ ,
but for Ashfaag the two goals scored against Vietnam was more
special.
“For
me the most exciting moments in the National team history was
the two dribbling goals against Vietnam in the 2006 World Cup
Qualifying.” Said Ashfaaq.
This young
product from Maldives Youth Development Program, rejected an
offer from Portugal giant, Benfica, saying he decided to reject
the offer due to a personal problem.
New Radiant failed twice in signing this player before he agreed to make a move to New Radiant to season 2006. After signing to New Radiant, Ashfaag promised his new club fans, that he will help New Radiant to take into a higher level both in national and international soccer.
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