Mabkhout rates trophy higher than Golden Boot

Riyadh — Ali Mabkhout says the UAE’s collective target of retaining their Gulf Cup title takes precedence over his personal goal of emerging from the tournament with the Golden Boot.

The Al Jazira striker, 24, currently leads the scorers’ standings with four goals from three matches, one strike ahead of Oman’s hat trick hero Said Salim heading into the semi-finals on Sunday evening.

However, Mabkhout would rather just help his international team-mates clasp the trophy they won so memorably last year once again on Wednesday evening and — if he gains personal recognition in the process – the repeat triumph will be all the sweeter for it.

“I’m very happy because I’ve four goals now and I’m so excited to score many more in our forthcoming games,” Mabkhout said.

“The team has helped me so much and it’s all thanks to them. I’m looking for the Gulf Cup though over the Golden Boot.

“I hope to win the Golden Boot, but it is more important for the team to remain Gulf Cup champions.” In stark contrast to Mabkhout’s formidable form, Ahmed Khalil has gone goalless in his three outings so far.

The Al Ahli frontman has predominantly led a lone furrow up front, with able support being provided by the likes of Mabkhout, Omar Abdulrahman and Ismail Al Hammadi in a 4-2-3-1 formation.

Khalil naturally cut a frustrated figure when discussing his own record at this tournament, yet — much like Mabkhout’s altruistic sentiments — the end result for this 23-strong group far outweighs individual accomplishments in his eyes.

“Ali is playing very well at the moment and Insha’Allah (God willing) he performs at the same level in our next match,” the Red Knights forward, 23, commented. “Sometimes, if you don’t score yourself, someone else will do so instead. We all play for each other.”

alex@khaleejtimes.com