Khaled Issa: Second equals last rank
So thankful and happy to reach the AFC final for the first time since 2005, Khaled Issa, Al Ain goalkeeper who endured pains and was one of the best players in the second-leg versus El Jaish, called upon everyone to do their best to win the Asian title.
“If we failed, God forbid, to do that, we will be just like the teams that exited the competition at the Group Stage. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces, President of Al Ain Club and Chairman of Al Ain Honorary Board, once said ‘Second and last places are the same’ and I think this is so true,” he said.
“In the final,” he continued, “all 22 players must perfectly carry out their roles. It is a critical stage where laxity is not acceptable, and we should unleash our potential to win the Asian title”, he added.
Asked about how he endured pains and completed the game, he said: “I am not the only one who did that. Every player at this stage will do everything to achieve the goal. Hopefully, luck will be on our side so we lift the trophy at HBZ Stadium and bring joy to al Emiratis.” He concluded.
