Misagh Bahadoran. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
The Philippine Sports Stadium now holds a special place in Misagh Bahadoran’s heart.
Scoring a goal in Global FC’s 4-1 victory over Yadanarbon FC in the AFC Cup group stages last April, the Fil-Iranian replicated that feat on Thursday, this time nailing the opening goal in the Azkals’ 2-1 victory over Bahrain to kickstart the country’s World Cup qualifying bid.
READ: Azkals carry the day on huge team effort
“I think this stadium is blessed for me,” he said. “I scored a goal here first for the club, and now, I scored for the national team. It feels good.”
Losing his starting spot to Stephan Schrock, Bahadoran waited for the perfect opportunity. And when the German striker hobbled in the 23rd minute, he made the most of the chance given to him.
“I’m so happy that coach (Dooley) trusted me and put me in a big game after Schrock got injured,” he said.
READ: Schrock to miss Azkals’ next match against Yemen
And he delivered, striking in the 50th minute as he sent the ball to the back of the net following a cross from Phil Younghusband.
“It was a fantastic ball by Phil. He crossed it very well. He saw my movement and (Javier) Patino brought the defender with him so there was a bigger space for me to score the goal,” he said.
READ: PH Azkals beat Bahrain to open World Cup qualifiers
More importantly, that will go on to the record books as Bahadoran’s first international goal for the Azkals.
“I’m so happy that I had my first international goal against Bahrain, one of the good teams in our group,” he said, as he looks to follow his strong performance on Tuesday when the Azkals fly to Qatar to face Yemen. “I’m so happy that we made so many Filipinos happy and we will try to win in our next matches.” CFC