KUALA LUMPUR: Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) winger Arif Aiman Hanapi's exploits have caught the eye of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
Arif has been dubbed a "wonderboy" by the Asian body following his brilliant display against South Korean giants Ulsan Hyundai in an AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) match on Tuesday.
Arif, 22, opened the scoring in the eighth minute at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, pouncing on an Ulsan defensive lapse. This paved the way for JDT's 3-0 upset win over the K-League champions.
That goal moved Arif to second place in the ACLE's top scorers chart with four goals, just two behind Gwangju FC's Jasir Asani, who has six.
In the ACLE, Arif has even outshone global icons Riyad Mahrez (three goals), Cristiano Ronaldo (two goals), and Roberto Firmino (two goals).
The AFC's official Facebook page praised Arif for his composed finishing and said: "Textbook Arif Aiman. JDT's wonderboy with a sweet finish," alongside a 23-second video showcasing his goal.
Arif has been a standout performer for JDT in the ACLE, scoring in all four of the team's matches so far.
His consistency has made him one of the tournament's most promising young talents.
JDT, who are currently fourth out of 12 teams in the ACLE East Zone standings, have recorded two wins, one draw and one loss.
With Arif in great form, the Southern Tigers are set to go deep into Asia's elite tournament.