Ikhsan Fandi scores 1st competitive goal in Europe, and it's a stunning winner
SINGAPORE — Singapore’s national striker Ikhsan Fandi scored his first competitive goal for his Norwegian club Raufoss IL on Sunday (12 May), and it proved to be a spectacular winner for his side.
The 20-year-old was jostling in a crowded penalty area with one minute left in regulation time, with his club tied 2-2 against Skeid Fotball in their clash in the second-tier league of the Scandinavian country.
He was first to react to meet a cross from the right, and improvised with a bicycle kick to score the dramatic winner.
Third S’porean to score in Europe
Ikhsan became only the third Singaporean player to score in professional European football. The first was his father Fandi Ahmad, who had 11 league goals for Dutch side FC Groningen from 1983 to 1985.
The second was V. Sundram Moorthy, who netted three goals during a stint with Swiss side FC Basel in 1989.
The 3-2 win extended Raufoss’ unbeaten league run to four matches, as they moved to fourth place in the second-tier league, with 13 points after seven games.
The top two sides earn automatic promotion, while the third- to sixth-placed teams enter a play-off for the final promotion spot.
Ikhsan has played in Raufoss’ last six matches, all as a substitute striker. He came on in the 75th minute against Skeid Fotball when his side were 1-2 down.
Ikhsan’s older brother Irfan is also doing well in the Thai League 2 with BG Pathum United, who are currently top of the second-tier league. Irfan, 21, has contributed with three goals, two Man-of-the-Match performances and six clean sheets.
Other Singapore stories:
Sports Hub launches Kallang sports, art and heritage trail
NUS undergrad charged for criminal trespassing, insulting modesty of woman
Para swimmers clinch 3 medals at inaugural Singapore leg of World Series
