AFC Annual Awards - Latest Videos

The AFC and QFA felt that in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, where tens of thousands of people across the Continent have lost their lives, that such an occasion would be inappropriate and therefore the AFC Executive Committee took the decision to cancel the event planned for December 2020.

The AFC President, Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has not only altered the lives and livelihood of people around the world, but has brought unique challenges to sports and to football. Thousands of lives have been lost not just in our Continent but also across the world.

Al Sadd's left winger started the year by playing an integral part in Qatar's AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 triumph, as his one goal and 10 assists helped power Felix Sanchez's squad to Continental glory with Afif's partnership with Almoez Ali a major highlight.

Son, winning for a record third time, received the award from Korea Republic legend Park Ji-sung and Andy Roxburgh, the AFC's Director of Technical Division at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

With Afif unable to attend the ceremony due to his commitments with the Qatari national team’s Gulf Cup campaign, Xavi accepted the award on his behalf at the ceremony held at Hong Kong Exhibition and Convention Centre.

Afif received the prestigious honour after an exceptional year for both club and country, producing 10 assists to help power Qatar to the AFC Asian Cup title in the United Arab Emirates in January, before playing a key role as Al Sadd won the Qatar Stars League and reached the AFC Champions League semi-finals.

Afif burst onto the scene at the AFC Asian Cup where he was an instrumental figure in helping Qatar secure their first-ever title. His brilliance was not limited to the Continental stage after guiding Al Sadd to the AFC Champions League semi-finals by scoring five goals.