PETALING JAYA: Palestinian international Oday Kharoub may be new to Malaysian football but Kelantan gave him the honour to lead their club as the captain.
And the 31-year-old did not disappoint as he produced a masterclass show on Sunday to steer his team for a 1-0 win against Police at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium in Kota Baru.
It was Kelantan's first win this season after losing the last three games.
Kharoub buried a penalty spot in the 28th minute and inspired his teammates to hold on to the win with his industry and combative display at the midfield.
He dedicated his first goal of the season to the local fans and his people back home in Palestine.
"The first win feels good...it's for our supporters at home. The atmosphere has so good at every home game. I want to continue putting smiles on the faces of the people here," he said.
"When I scored the goal, I took off my armband and showed my nation’s flag to remind everyone of what's happening in Gaza.
"I've been overwhelmed with the support for me and Palestine since I joined Kelantan."
Kharoub does not want to disappoint the team of coaches helmed by Park Jae-hong.
"They have faith in me and I've been given the role to lead, defend, and sometimes even attack, but it makes me even more effective as a player.
Kelantan’s next game is against Kedah at the Darulaman Stadium in Alor Setar on July 12, and Kharoub wants to continue his winning momentum.
