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Thani recalls UAE glory days

DUBAI — For the UAE former striker Ali Thani, the team’s qualification to the 1990 Italy World Cup finals was a fairy tale and a piece of hard work which is still etched in the memories of the players who have achieved the goal in Singapore.

“I’m proud to be part of the team which conquered all the odds in 1990 and took the country’s football to the highest level after less than 20 years from our independence in 1971,” Thani said. “Now almost 20 years have passed since then and nothing has been done to build on that success.

“The people were happy to see their flag flying during the world’s premier soccer tournament.

“In 1990, we were among the best 24 teams in the world and after that the number of participating teams was increased to 32. “We were able to do it when only two teams from Asia were allowed in the finals now the number of the seats has been doubled.

“We were warmly welcomed on our return from Singapore. The fans celebrated around the seven emirates and the media didn’t stop talking about the extraordinary qualities of the players. It was a dream that came true and that was everything.”

Thani added: “I feel very sad when I remember those days. Now 32 teams are gathering in South Africa and we have to watch them and stand by one side or the other. We are one of the audiences and not part of the episode,” he said. When asked what’s next and what should be done, Thani said, “This question should be directed to the magnificent eleven who got the job done 20 years ago.

“They are the only people who know the secret. There’s still time to find out, but we need to do it very quickly before it’s too late,” he concluded.

hisham@khaleejtimes.com