With the continent’s attention on the AFC U-19 Championship Bahrain 2016, home fans from the Gulf nation were hoping for an inspired performance in their Group A opener against Saudi Arabia.
In the end, the Bahraini faithful didn’t just get their wish; they found a young hero in Ahmed Mohamed, who came off the bench to seal an injury-time 3-2 victory over their West Asian neighbours.
“It was an amazing feeling to score such an important goal. Most importantly, I must thank god. The coach told me to give my best and to remind my team mates to keep persevering,” the 19-year-old told The-AFC.com.
The opening ceremony set the tone for the night, with the joyous scenes in the stands matching the riveting action at the Khalifa Sport City Stadium. A. Mohamed was quick to pay tribute to the home fans for spurring them on and igniting in them the fighting spirit as they searched for the coveted equaliser.
“I would like to thank our fans for coming down to support us. As players, it gave us an added boost and we always play with pride when we play at home.
“Especially today, when we were approaching the end, their support gave us the strength to keep on fighting.”
A. Mohamed’s exploits ensure Bahrain are in pole position to qualify from Group A, and the 19-year-old is confident that their early victory will continue to inspire the nation.
“Bahraini fans are always passionate, always standing behind us and with this win; we hope that more fans will come out in full force to the stadiums.”
Photo: AFC
Source: the-afc.com