Abu Dhabi police urge football fans to show 'good sportsmanship'

Request comes as the UAE prepares to take on Qatar in the semi-finals

Emirati supporters wave the national flag during the 2019 AFC Asian Cup quarter-final football match between UAE and Australia at Hazaa bin Zayed Stadium in Al-Ain on January 25, 2019.  / AFP / Giuseppe CACACE
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Abu Dhabi police have urged football fans to avoid using negative language on social media platforms.

Officers stressed how important it was that supporters demonstrated good ‎sportsmanship both inside and outside the stadium.

“Abu Dhabi police call on the public to always show good‎ sportsmanship,” a statement said.

“Supporters should cheer on their team in a civilised way and stay away from tweeting negative tweets.

“We hope everyone enjoys watching the game.”

The Asian Cup tournament is now down to the semi-finals with only the UAE, Japan, Iran and Qatar remaining.

UAE football supporters have been offered free tickets for their team's match against Qatar after the side beat Australia in the previous round.

The tickets were given out across Sharjah, Dubai, Fujairah, Al Ain and Ras Al Khaimah.