Today's Edition
KUUMAR SHYAM (ABU DHABI)
It's Sharjah who remain the last UAE club standing in the Asian Champions League (ACL) after Cosmin Olaroiu's men emerged triumphant against Shabab Al Ahli in an all-Emirati quarter-final clash in the secondary division of the tournament called ACL Two. Goalkeeper Adel Al Hosani was the hero for Sharjah who prevailed in a 5-4 penalty shootout win on Wednesday night at the 15,000-seater Sharjah Stadium, which was packed to capacity.
Marcus Vinicius' 35th-minute strike for the hosts had been cancelled out by Shabab Al-Ahli substitute Munas Dabbur in the 94th minute, leaving the tie deadlocked at 1-1 (2-2 on aggregate) after extra time.
"We achieved a historic result against a very distinguished team," declared a triumphant Olaroiu after the match. "I told the players that we would not win unless they exceeded their potential and gave 120% of their effort and dedication. Indeed, the spirit of the players and fans was the secret to the victory. We must maintain our level until we achieve our goal."
With two-time ACL champions Al Ain and ADNOC Pro League winners Al Wasl having bowed out of the main Elite competition, it is Sharjah who must now hope to go all the way.
Sharjah next travel to Al Taawoun for the first leg of their semi-finals in Saudi Arabia on April 9. The return leg will be on April 16.
"I need you all in the match," Sharjah coach Cosmin Olaroiu had implored fans a day earlier, and they responded in droves, creating an electric atmosphere. Al Hosani emerged as the hero, producing a string of crucial saves, including the decisive stop of Quan Santos' penalty in the shootout.
"It was a great match," Al Hosani told Telecom Asia Sport. "When you have the support, you have to give your best, and that's what we did in front of our fans. Penalty shootouts depend on luck, but it's important to study the opposing players' kick, which is what I did. All credit also goes to my teammates as they were exceptional on the field."
The match was a testament to Sharjah's resilience and tactical discipline. A defensive masterclass effectively neutralised Shabab Al Ahli's star-studded attack, including Iranian striker Sardar Azmoun, who failed to find the net despite being the tournament's leading scorer.
A zonal defence strategy proved effective for the hosts, stifling the attacking threat of Azmoun as well as the Brazilian attackers Yuri Cesar and Matias.
Caio Lucas, who is set to make his debut for the UAE national team in the crucial World Cup qualifiers, expressed his delight. "I'm happy with the win and for qualifying for the semi-finals. We now have to prepare for the next stage," he said.
"Sharjah Club is my home and the place where I feel the spirit and warmth of the family. I have nothing to say except that I will give everything for the national team. I have to help the team. Being selected as a player for the national team is a wonderful thing. I will strive to give everything I have for the team."
Shabab Al Ahli coach Paulo Sousa made no excuses. "We missed numerous opportunities, and the referee disallowed a goal for us. I am proud of my players and wish Sharjah success in their Asian campaign," he said.
Olaroiu, who has 2 months left on his contract, has been instrumental in the revival of Sharjah. He previously coached Al Ain and also led Shabab Al-Ahli to an ACL final in 2015.
Despite the euphoria, Olaroiu remained coy about his future, saying: "I am currently focused on my work, and I am committed to my contract until it expires in about two months."
Sharjah and Shabab Al-Ahli are scheduled to meet again in five days' time in the semi-finals of the ADIB Cup.
