Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Kuala Terengganu: United Arab Emirates head coach Mohamed Bashir is urging his players to put the disappointment of Saturday’s 7-2 defeat in the final of the 2017 AFC Beach Soccer Championship behind them and concentrate instead on April’s FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.
After seeing Iran establish a 3-0 first period lead, the UAE rallied briefly before ultimately conceding defeat at a tournament throughout which they have impressed.
As losing finalists, the Emiratis - along with Iran and third-placed Japan - will now represent Asia at the Beach Soccer World Cup. and although proud of his side’s performances in Malaysia, Bashir believes all their focus must now be on making an impact in the Bahamas.
“This is a really good moment for the team and for me personally as this is my first time as a coach,” he said.
“We had aimed to become champions but we couldn't achieve that. But I am proud of my team's attitude and achievement.
“Now we have to focus on the World Cup. We will be looking at some potential new players to join the squad and will select the best. We’ll also train more.
“The World Cup is the target now and we’ll try to make an impact there.”
Photo: AFC