T he UAE team’s giant-killing performance to get to the semi-finals of the Asian Cup football tournament this year captivated the country, as well as causing some dips in productivity because of the matches broadcast live from Australia during working hours here. Fans might ask what could make it even better.
The answer emerged on Sunday: the UAE will host the next Asian Cup tournament in 2019. Imagine all the excitement engendered by the last tournament but with the ability to cheer on our team in person, rather than huddled around a television screen. Imagine, too, the many expatriates from countries that are also represented in the tournament and who will fill stadiums in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Al Ain.
Combined with the news that the UAE is about to field its first full-time all-Emirati women’s team – in Cyprus tomorrow – football fans have a lot to cheer about.
