Abu Dhabi: United Arab Emirates midfielder Majed Hassan Ahmad has promised the team’s fans that they can expect the best from the home side in the knockout stage of the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019.
UAE face Kyrgyz Republic in the first of what they hope will be a successful knockout stage and Ahmad said the entire squad is focused on the challenges ahead.
“We know that our fans want us to win the title and the players are also determined to give it our best attempt. We have been working hard since confirming our spot and the fans can be sure of a good performance from us tomorrow,” said Ahmad.
UAE are seeking to better their 1996 runners-up finish, when they previously hosted the Continental showpiece.
Although they topped Group A to advance, it was a mixed preliminary campaign with the win over India sandwiched by draws with Bahrain and Thailand.
Ahmad said the group stage is now in the past.
“We are in a new stage, the knockout stage. We respect Kyrgyz Republic and congratulations to them for qualifying for their first AFC Asian Cup,” said Ahmad.
“However, all 23 UAE players are determined to give their best for our fans, who are always behind us.”
The Zayed Sports City Stadium is expected to be filled with local fans and Ahmad said the team is looking forward to delivering.
“The spirit of the team is very high and we promise the fans that we will fight till the last moment.”
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