Pro League Committee chairman Mohammed Thani Murshed Al Romaithi wants the country to come together and boost the UAE’s bid to make the 2018 World Cup.
The Whites sit one place behind Group A leaders Saudi Arabia during the second round of AFC qualification, but can close this gap to three points against minnows Timor-Leste at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi Friday night (kick-off: 18:15).
With only the eight group winners and four best runners-up set for progression, Al Romaithi has issued a rallying cry urging supporters to flock to the ground and provide “the 12th man”.
“We stand fully behind the UAE National Team, and have great confidence in the players, as well as the technical and administrative organisation of the team,” the vice chairman of the UAE Football Association said.
“The national team needs and deserves the support of the fans, who can be the 12th man in the stadium by helping to boost motivation and raise the morale of the players.
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“The atmosphere created by the fans can help the players to go the extra mile on the pitch.
“We encourage all football lovers in the country to support the UAE national team on Thursday.
“A full turnout at the stadium will be a befitting representation of our great nation.”
Poor attendances have detailed the UAE’s latest bid to reach a second-ever World Cup.
Only 7,822 people turned up to the capital’s 42,056-capacity venue for September’s 10-0 thrashing of Malaysia.
