Malayali soccer star Mohammed Rafi will have the unique distinction of having played in three out of the four ISL finals to dateCan Mohammed Rafi's headers help him to become a household name in this land which adores its filmstars? Football lovers will be keenly watching Malayali star Rafi's exploits on the field as he laces his boots for a third ISL final. Rafi played for ATK in the opening season and Kerala Blasters in the third season and both had reached the finals then. This year, he will be representing Chennaiyin FC in the ISL summit clash.
Header specialist Rafi will have the unique distinction of having played in three out of the four ISL finals to date. Ahead of the final against Bengaluru FC, the striker opens up about his exploits in the premier football event in the country...
Three ISL finals. Were those because of hard work or just luck?
Being able to put my boots on and play in three ISL finals gives immense joy. These successes are a result of the dedication put in by the whole team. I got to play the final for ATK and the Blasters in the first and third seasons, respectively. Each was an experience on its own. This year, we face Bengaluru on their home turf. Our team is riding high on confidence, however.
Which season and final were your favourites?
I can never forget the Season 1 final. I will remember forever being part of the champion side of the inaugural edition. I am delighted to have been a part of that victory. Getting a goal for the Blasters in last season's final is also a memory that I cherish. That goal came amid all the harsh comments I had been receiving. With that goal, I managed to shut the mouths of those who knew only to criticise.
Did you ever feel that some critics were harsh?
I have felt that some critics had crossed the line, straying from the norms of sportsman spirit. Those who personally target players are not actual football fans. They don't know what is good football. They howled on social media that Rafi is out of form, not playing well and needs to be thrown out of the team. Those who stay behind the team both in good and bad times are true football fans. Constructive, healthy criticism is what is needed. I haven't faced such issues with the Chennaiyin team at all.
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