Arif Aiman scores, wins MVP as JDT claims fourth straight Malaysia Cup

Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) star Arif Aiman Hanapi celebrated a perfect return to football after a six-month layoff due to a thigh injury. The national winger not only scored a goal but also earned the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for the Malaysia Cup final, leading his team, Harimau Selatan, to their fourth consecutive title.

Arif Aiman's triumphant return occurred just days before his wedding. He entered the final match against Kuching City as a substitute in the 64th minute and made an immediate impact, scoring JDT's second goal in their 2-0 victory. This achievement marks a significant milestone after his injury sustained during the Asian Cup qualifiers in November.

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Six months ago, I really struggled to get back to playing. Every day in the gym was boring, but I had to face it because this is the first injury of my career as a footballer.

Reflecting on his recovery, Arif Aiman described the past six months as challenging. "Six months ago, I really struggled to get back to playing. Every day in the gym was boring, but I had to face it because this is the first injury of my career as a footballer," he stated. He channeled this difficulty into motivation, focusing on his eventual comeback.

The player admitted to concerns that his prolonged absence might jeopardize his streak of winning the Malaysia MVP title. "After I got injured, I thought maybe this year I wouldn't win (the MVP title) again because I hadn't played for six months," he said. Despite these worries, his performance in the final proved his enduring skill and resilience, capping off a remarkable personal and team achievement.

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After I got injured, I thought maybe this year I wouldn't win (the MVP title) again because I hadn't played for six months. So, maybe I wouldn't be able to maintain it, maybe next season I could get it back.