We never gave up hope, says Al Ain shootout hero Eisa

Al Ain goalkeeper Khalid Eisa celebrates after winning the match against Wellington. (Photo by Ryan Lim)

Al Ain FC keeper Khalid Eisa made crucial saves during the course of the normal time and then stopped two penalties in the shootout to steer 'The Boss' past Team Wellington 4-3 in the Fifa Club World Cup.
Before the shootout, Al Ain drew level after being down by three first-half goals. Eisa, the man of the match, said Al Ain players wanted to show everyone the prowess of the UAE football.
"We as a team are well prepared for this Club World Cup. The coach had shared valuable information about the opponent by monitoring their videos. We had identified all their weakness and strengths. We respect them and didn't ever underestimate them. We know how big this tournament is. For many players this will be their only chance to be part of a major tournament like this. When it's a lifetime opportunity, everyone keeps pushing themselves. We fought hard and won," Eisa said.
After 44 minutes, Al Ain were 0-3 behind Wellington but Eisa said coach Zoran Mamic's inspirational talk during the break motivated everyone.
"We are participating in the tournament for the first time and this is an incredible achievement. It doesn't happen often in the sport of football that a team which is down by three goals end up winning the match. During the break, the coach's pep talk had a big influence in the way we played in the second half," he said.
The stopper lauded his teammates who kept hunting for goals in the second half and made it 3-3 by end of regulation time.
"We have top players and make a great team. We always play in high spirits and don't give up. So I was hopeful that we can return into the match despite being three goals down. The players were also determined to win this match and it was very apparent in the way they played (after the first half). I am happy we have won," Eisa added.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com