PETALING JAYA: Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) winger Akhyar Rashid’s inclusion in the national squad was a surprise to many as he was hardly a regular starter with the Southern Tigers for the last two seasons.
But the 22-year-old showed that coach Kim Pan-gon made the right decision with an exciting display in the 2-0 friendly win over the Philippines at the Singapore National Stadium on Wednesday.
Akhyar’s every touch spelt trouble for the Philippines and his darting runs, close control and shimmies were a constant thorn to the defence led by Carli De Murga.
Most impressive of all was that he also proved to be the match winner, scoring both goals in the third and 25th minutes.
In the first strike, Akhyar was released by a smart through pass from leftback La’Vere Corbin Ong and he turned rightback Erick Linares before unleashing a powerful shot past goalkeeper Neil Etheridge.
His second goal came after a rapid counter-attack initiated by veteran midfielder Safiq Rahim, whose superb pass from the defensive area found striker Syafiq Ahmad.
Syafiq then squared the ball to Akhyar, who blasted home past De Murga and Etheridge.
A delighted Akhyar said he was not surprised that he could perform well on the international stage despite his irregular starts with JDT.
“Despite the lack of minutes with JDT, I still managed to improve as I’m always exposed to high-level training in Johor. I also had some games in the Asian Champions League last year,” said the former Kedah player.
“All that has helped me to cope with the intensity of the international game. I’m thankful that I can give my best for the nation.’’
Akhyar said he was thrilled to deliver in coach Pan-gon’s first game and hopes to keep the momentum going in their next friendly against Singapore on Saturday.
“’Pan-gon emphasises quick attacking movements and that has proven to be effective in our first game,’’ he added.
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