Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed cheers UAE to victory in the home end

UAE book their place in the quarter-finals of the Asian Cup with a 3-2 win over Kyrgyzstan

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed at the UAE game. Courtesy: UAEFA

The UAE national team's spirits were lifted on Monday by Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed cheering on the side in the home end.

The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces was seen watching the UAE's narrow 3-2 win against Kyrgyzstan at Zayed Sports City Stadium alongside his daughter and other dignitaries.

They were joined in the stadium by a large contingent of Kyrgyz fans who were just as loud as the home team's support.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed was joined by other dignitaries at the match. Courtesy UAEFA

Sheikh Mohamed’s presence inspired Emirati fans who could not make it to the Kyrgyzstan game to turn out in full force for the UAE’s next match, which will be against Australia.

Dr Anwar Gargash, the UAE Minister for Foreign Affairs, called on UAE fans to get behind the team.

"The national pride accompanying the UAE’s win over Kyrgyzstan is more important than the match itself and the team’s performance in the tournament," he tweeted.

"Supporting the national team by all citizens, led by Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, shows how well the country is doing."

الشعور الوطني المصاحب لفوز الامارات على قيرغزستان أهم من المباراة نفسها ومن حسابات البطولة، متابعة وإعتزاز بألوان الوطن من كل مواطن وعلى رأسهم الشيخ محمد بن زايد وأحفاده، الإمارات بألف خير ولله الحمد والشكر.

— د. أنور قرقاش (@AnwarGargash) January 22, 2019

The UAE will meet Australia – the defending Asian Cup champions – in the quarter-finals on Friday at the Hazza bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain.

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lf23 UAE away kit

UAE players celebrate their opening goal during their 3-2 win over Kyrgyzstan in the second round of the Asian Cup. All photos by Pawan Singh / The National