AFC Challenge League
The 29-year-old, brought in on loan from Abahani Limited for Fortis' continental campaign, struck in the 52nd minute to seal a 1-0 Preliminary Stage victory at the Bashundhara Kings Arena.
“My mind wasn't on the fact that I was playing for Fortis,” said Ibrahim. “It felt like I was playing for the country. The country is the most important thing. It feels great to contribute and score for the country.
“I've scored in international matches before. This isn't my best goal, but the importance of this match and this moment mean much more to me. The head coach (Masud Kaiser) told me to believe in myself. I trusted that belief and gave everything I had.”
Kaiser revealed that Ibrahim's previous experience against Kyrgyz Republic opposition had been an important consideration when putting together his squad.
“Initially, I had two other names in mind for the forward line – Rakib (Hossain) and (Foysal Ahmed) Fahim. But for one reason or another, I couldn't get them,” said Kaiser.
“Then I started thinking about who had recent experience of playing against a strong Kyrgyz Republic side like this. That's when Ibrahim came to mind. In the end, the way he repaid that faith was truly outstanding.”
Muras United's head coach Edmar De Lacerda acknowledged his side struggled to impose themselves and rued their missed second half penalty.
“We told the players to play at a high tempo but they couldn't do that. The heat also caused us problems. We missed a penalty, but congratulations to Fortis. They played well and deserved to win.”
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