KUALA LUMPUR: Arif Aiman Hanapi could not have scripted a better ending to his season.
Just two days before his wedding, the Johor Darul Ta’zim winger marked his long-awaited return from injury with a goal. His contribution helped the Southern Tigers defeat Kuching City 2-0 in the Malaysia Cup final at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Saturday (May 23).
The victory secured JDT’s sixth Malaysia Cup title. The win also completed an astonishing fourth consecutive domestic quadruple after they also won the Super League, FA Cup and Charity Shield this season.
Arif’s appearance itself was a major moment. The 24-year-old made his comeback after nearly seven months on the sidelines due to injury.
His introduction in the 64th minute for La’vere Corbin-Ong sparked loud cheers from the JDT faithful.
The winger ensured the night became even more memorable when he found the net in injury time. He scored with a stunning strike from outside the penalty box that clipped the inside of the post before beating goalkeeper Haziq Nadzli.
"Alhamdulillah, this is a very meaningful gift for me," said Arif, who is set to tie the knot on Monday (May 25) with Nurul Aliah Natasha Hairushari.
"More than six months without playing was a struggle. I worked really hard to come back because it was difficult being away from football," he said.
"This was the worst injury I’ve had in my career. However, it motivated me to stay patient, recover properly and return stronger," he added.
JDT had earlier struggled to break down a spirited Kuching City side, who created several opportunities of their own.
The Southern Tigers eventually broke the deadlock in the 80th minute. Brazilian winger Marcus Guilherme calmly slotted home after being set up by Filipino wingback Oscar Arribas.
