Qatar’s forward Akram Afif made history by becoming the first player from his country to be crowned as the Asian Player of the Year at the AFC Annual Awards 2023 in Seoul. He was honored for his outstanding performance, which led Qatar to their second successive Asian Cup title earlier in the year. Afif scored eight goals, including the first-ever hat-trick in the final, earning him the Player of the Tournament title and the Golden Boot. He also helped his club, Al Sadd, claim a domestic double by netting 26 goals and providing 11 assists in 22 league games. Afif expressed his gratitude to his wife, teammates, coaches, and administrative staff for their support in achieving this prestigious award.
In addition to Afif’s individual achievement, the Qatar Football Association (QFA) was also recognized at the AFC Annual Awards. The QFA received the Asian Cup Host Appreciation award for hosting the best-ever Asian Cup tournament earlier in the year. The AFC President, Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, presented the award to QFA President Jassim Rashid Al Buenain. The organization of the tournament, which took place at nine world-class stadiums, set numerous records, including crowd attendance across 51 matches with over 1.5 million supporters showing their fervour for their teams. The successful hosting of the tournament was a testament to Qatar’s commitment to excellence in sports event organization.
The Minister of Sports and Youth, H E Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, commended Afif’s remarkable achievement and Qatar’s exceptional organization of the Asian Cup in a congratulatory message. He highlighted the support provided by the State of Qatar to the development and excellence of its youth in the sports field. The Asian Cup Host Appreciation award symbolizes the growing confidence that the AFC has in the QFA, reflecting the exceptional efforts put forth to ensure the success of the tournament. Qatar’s Olympic Committee President, H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, also expressed pride in the achievements of the national team and sports institutions at both continental and international levels, acknowledging their efficiency and success.
The recognition received by Akram Afif and the QFA at the AFC Annual Awards is a testament to Qatar’s rising prominence in Asian football. Afif’s individual success in winning the Asian Player of the Year award for the second time showcases his dedication and talent on the field. The support provided by his teammates, coaches, and administrative staff has been instrumental in his achievements. The successful hosting of the Asian Cup earlier in the year further solidifies Qatar’s reputation as a capable host of major sporting events. The accolades received at the AFC Annual Awards reaffirm Qatar’s commitment to excellence in football and sports event management.
As Qatar continues to make strides in the world of football, the achievements of players like Akram Afif serve as inspiration for aspiring young athletes in the country. The success of Afif and the QFA in winning prestigious awards at the AFC Annual Awards demonstrates the dedication and hard work put into developing football in Qatar. The support provided by the government and sports organizations has been crucial in nurturing talented individuals and hosting successful tournaments. The recognition received by Qatar on the international stage highlights the country’s growing influence in football and its commitment to fostering talent and excellence in sports. With continued support and dedication, Qatar is poised to achieve further success in the world of football and beyond.
In conclusion, the AFC Annual Awards ceremony in Seoul was a momentous occasion for Qatar, with Akram Afif and the Qatar Football Association receiving prestigious awards for their achievements in Asian football. Afif’s historic win as the Asian Player of the Year, along with the QFA’s recognition as the host of the best-ever Asian Cup, reflects the country’s rising prominence in the world of football. The support provided by the government, sports organizations, and the community has been instrumental in nurturing talent and hosting successful tournaments. Qatar’s success at the AFC Annual Awards is a testament to the country’s commitment to excellence in football and sports event organization, setting a benchmark for future achievements on the international stage.
