PETALING JAYA: The resurgence of Kuala Lumpur winger Safawi Rasid (pic) could not have come at a better time.
Safawi struck twice in a commanding 4-0 win over Brunei at the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium in Bandar Seri Begawan on Monday night.
His brace not only secured three points for the City Boys but also underlined his credentials as a highly potent goalscorer in the Super League.
The player on-loan from Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) now has five goals in five games.
Kuala Lumpur are second in the table with 13 points after five games, just behind leaders JDT (18).
With his fine run, Safawi is looking forward to the next match against his former club Terengganu with confidence.
“The start is good because we have remained unbeaten, and I feel I’m building my confidence again,” said the 28-year-old.
“I can’t wait to face Terengganu. It’s special, but my focus is clear, I want to help Kuala Lumpur get maximum points.”
Safawi also knows his national team ambitions hinge on consistent performances.
“I may not have found my best form yet for Harimau Malaya, and I’m still fighting for minutes. To get a spot, I’ve to prove myself in training.”
On Monday, it was Brunei who made an early statement, forcing Kuala Lumpur goalkeeper Quincy Kammeraad to stand on his toes.
But a defensive lapse from the hosts gave the City Boys the breakthrough in the 26th minute when goalkeeper Haimie Nyaring fumbled Yura Indera Putera Yunos’ back pass into his own net.
From then on, there was only one winner. Spanish midfielder Victor Ruiz orchestrated the tempo in midfield, doubling the lead with a strike in the 56th minute before setting up Zhafri Yahya, who then assisted Safawi’s first goal seven minutes later.
The winger then sealed his brace in the 83rd minute, finishing coolly after another Ruiz through ball.
Kuala Lumpur coach Risto Vidakovic, has no doubts about Safawi’s influence.
“He’s one of our key players and he has scored practically every game,” said the Bosnian.
“Safawi is a good example in the locker room and a great role model for the young players. For now, we just enjoy having him.”
