Abu Dhabi: Skipper Omar Abdul Rahman once again stood out for Al Ain in Bunyodkor’s 3-0 rout in the AFC Champions League Group C clash on Monday.
The star midfielder has been in a class of his own in this tournament, scoring five times and was involved in the same number of assists in six outings. His ability to make the most of the setpieces have also stood out.
Omar, who walked away with the ‘Player of the Match’ award for leading from the front, asserted it was important to keep up the same intensity having topped the group going into the round of 16.
“The most important thing for me was to win the game. And I’m delighted that we played as a unit and need to continue the fine run,” said Abdul Rahman, adding that his focus has been to render the best possible support when on field.
“Whatever may be the case, I always focus on how to assist my team better,” said Abdul Rahman, who acknowledged that he was in the best of form in the tournament, thanks to the way he had utilised the dead-ball situations.
“Yes, I will have to attribute my success to the way I have made use of the setpieces but it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my teammates. I have created more chances which has resulted in the increase in goals for me as well,” revealed Abdul Rahman, adding that his focus, however, has always been to make sure that the team wins regardless of who scores.
Having already qualified for the last 16, going into the match against Bunyodkor, Al Ain coach Zoran Mamic made sure youngsters Salem Juma, Saeed Juma and Mohammad Khalfan were in his starting line-up.
The trio were quite impressive and Abdul Rahman felt that the move from Mamic was appreciable and the boys grabbed the opportunity with both hands.
“I’m so happy to see them playing with us and I think their performance during this match deserves commendation. Their confidence would have got a good boost,” felt Abdul Rahman.
Coach Mamic also hailed his team’s performance, “The team put up a great show. All the players were very focused right from the first minute to the end. I think if we continue with this perfect level, we will achieve great results and fulfil our desired objective of going all the way,” he said.
