AFC Asian Cup 2019: Facing Real Madrid, River Plate has boosted my confidence UAE keeper Khalid Essa
Khalid
Essa, the first-choice goalkeeper of hosts United Arab Emirates (UAE), has said
that the 2018 FIFA Club World Cup campaign with his club Al Ain has boosted his
confidence heading into AFC Asian Cup 2019.
Essa is
one of the seven Al Ain stars who are part of Alberto Zaccheroni’s UAE side
that will face Bahrain in the tournament opener at the Zayed Sports City
Stadium in Dubai on January 5.
The
29-year-old goalkeeper was shootout hero twice against New Zealand side Team
Wellington and Copa Libertadores champions River Plate as Al Ain reached the
final of the tournament only to be second-best to European champions Real
Madrid despite the custodian making save after save.
“My
performances in the Club World Cup, which saw Al Ain make the final, came
thanks to the cooperation of all my colleagues and the support of the fans,”
Essa was quoted as saying by Sport360.com.
“The
tournament has strengthened my confidence and increased my international
experience. Participating in the Club World Cup is a great opportunity that I
tried to exploit and to do my best,” the Al Ain star said.
The
goalkeeper hopes that the experience he has gained will put him in good stead
when he turns out for the national team at the continental championship to be
held in the Emirates form January 5 to February 1.
“I
stress that I came out with great technical benefits from this tournament, that
I wish helps boost my participation with the national team at the AFC Asian Cup
2019,” Essa said.
“I am
ready to represent my country in this important tournament. I will do
everything I can for my country. All the players in the team are ready to do
their best,” he added.
UAE are pooled with Thailand, Bahrain and India in
Group A of the AFC Asian Cup 2019.
AFC Asian Cup 2019: We want to repeat the Gulf Cup triumph- Oman coach Pim Verbeek
AFC Asian Cup 2019: We want to repeat the Gulf Cup triumph- Oman coach Pim Verbeek
