Golden Boot winner Safawi proves local strikers can still shine in M-League

KUALA LUMPUR – Safawi Rasid has dismissed questions about whether he has returned to his prime, focusing instead on his recent accolade as the M-League (Awards) Local Golden Boot winner. The winger's success with KL City has reignited discussions about Malaysian strikers' ability to excel in a competitive domestic league, where foreign players have historically dominated the scoring charts.

Safawi expressed his pride and gratitude, stating, "I leave that for the fans and outsiders to judge. For me, I am just very proud of myself, extremely happy and deeply satisfied to win the Local Golden Boot at the awards this year. It is not easy for a local player to score many goals in the domestic league. Tonight proves that local players can still do it."

His achievement sends a strong message to local strikers, highlighting what can be accomplished when given the right opportunities. The award also serves as a morale booster as Safawi prepares to join Kuching City, where he will face his former club Johor Darul Ta zim (JDT) in the Charity Shield curtain-raiser.

In his time at Kuching City, Safawi has shown his worth as a goal threat, scoring 13 goals and providing four assists in 25 appearances across various competitions. During his Super League stint, he scored 12 goals, making him the top Malaysian scorer in the top flight, and contributing significantly to KL City's attacking prowess. Safawi's return to form at Kuching City bodes well for the team's aspirations in the upcoming season, as he aims to replicate his impressive goal-scoring record.