Magical Moments: Almoez Ali vs Japan (AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019)

Having arrived in the United Arab Emirates with an already burgeoning reputation, the livewire forward went on to find the net a record nine times – the last of which was a particularly magical moment in the final – and be named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.

That accolade, along with the award for finishing as top goalscorer, was roundly applauded, a nod to Ali’s prowess following a campaign which saw him shine brightly yet again for Felix Sanchez’s charges as they claimed Qatar’s first-ever AFC Asian Cup crown.

Born in Paris to a Thai father and French mother, Tristan Do attended the world-renowned INF Clairefontaine academy in France as a teenager alongside the likes of Real Madrid goalkeeper Alphonse Areola and Borussia Dortmund midfielder Raphael Guerreiro.

From there he signed his first professional contract with RS Strasbourg before spells with Lorient and Gazelec Ajjacio. But in 2014, an unexpected call from Thailand led to his first trip to Southeast Asia and, six years on, Bangkok has become home.

Speaking exclusively to the-AFC.com, Do reflects on his life-changing decision, becoming a key member of the Thai national side and a renowned figure among adoring fans, as well as a business venture in one of Bangkok's trendiest neighbourhoods.