UAE football team’s Road to Russia: Old faces will be key to qualifying

Come Fifa World Cup 2018, senior players will be needed to lend the vital experience, writes John McAuley.

Omar Abdulrahman, left, is the creative fulcrum of the UAE side. AFP
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Ali Kasheif

The experienced Al Jazira goalkeeper is one of the first names on the teamsheet. Having made his debut in 2009, he was a key member of the 2012 Olympics side – chosen as one of Mahdi Ali’s three overage players – and then last year’s Gulf Cup winning team. His leadership qualities have shone as captain.

Amer Abdulrahman

First excelled with the UAE’s age-group sides – an impressive 2009 Under 20 World Cup prompted World Soccer to dub him “the Zidane of the UAE”. The Baniyas star is his national team’s midfield metronome. Set up the winner in the Gulf Cup final.

Walid Abbas

Highly experienced, the Al Ahli defender is dependable, a fine tackler and reads the game superbly. He can play at left-back, or more centrally, and enjoys getting forward. First called up to the national team in 2008, integral in last year’s Gulf Cup and in qualifying for the Asian Cup. Could retire by 2018, though.

Omar Abdulrahman

The UAE’s poster boy, this gifted Al Ain playmaker is the side’s creative fulcrum. Can play anywhere across midfield, but usually in an advanced position because of his eye for a killer pass. Made debut in 2011, starred at the Olympics two years later and then scored the winner in a Gulf Cup semi-final. Voted player of that tournament.

Ahmed Khalil

A powerful striker, the Al Ahli forward has spearheaded a succession of Mahdi Ali’s teams. Debuted for senior national team in 2008, the same year he was named the best young player in Asia. His goals clinched UAE’s spot at the 2012 Olympics, while he scored three in five matches at last year’s Gulf Cup.

jmcauley@thenational.ae

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