Trio relish prospect of playing in President’s Cup final

This week’s President’s Cup final at Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium is more than a football match.

It is an occasion defined by the honour of lifting a trophy that carries immense national significance, presented in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

Friday’s showpiece event brings together two of the most decorated sides in UAE football, as Al Ain FC and Al Jazira Club meet in the final for the first time in ten years - a match Al Jazira won on penalties in their last appearance in the final.

Amongst the Al Jazira squad preparing for Friday’s final, Abdullah Ramadan approaches the match with a particular sense of occasion - for the midfielder, it will be his first ever President’s Cup Final appearance.

Ask him what comes to mind when he hears the words “President’s Cup” and the answer is immediate.

“Without a doubt, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan,” said Ramadan.

His message to supporters was equally clear. “My message to our supporters is to stand firmly behind us in the final. God willing, we will win this title and celebrate together.”

Alongside him stands a man who knows this stage better than almost anyone. Goalkeeper and club captain Ali Khaseif has spent 21 years at Al Jazira and has already lifted the President’s Cup three times in his career.

“Honestly, the very first thing that comes to mind is the dream of having the ultimate honour to shake hands with the President,” said Khaseif. “I encourage everyone to attend, as we want to show the world that the UAE continues to prosper and stand strong under the guidance of its wise leadership.”

On the opposite side of the pitch stands a player whose relationship with this trophy is perhaps the most remarkable of all.

Khaled Eissa, captain of both Al Ain FC and the UAE National Team, has won the President’s Cup four times - twice with Al Jazira and twice with Al Ain.

“The President’s Cup is the most beloved tournament for everyone in the UAE, both citizens and residents alike,” said Eissa. “We always take immense pride in participating and being part of it, and it’s an even greater honour to actually make it to the final.

“Just reaching the final is a massive source of pride. So, you can imagine what it means to actually win the title and have the incredible honour of shaking hands with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.”

He closed with a message that speaks to supporters and the wider nation alike. “I hope everyone truly enjoys this final and the whole atmosphere leading up to the match. We are fully committed to delivering a final that reflects the quality and pride of Emirati football.”

Meanwhile, for Soufiane Rahimi, one of the most decorated attackers in UAE football, the President’s Cup is the one piece of silverware that has eluded him since joining Al Ain in 2021.