Doha: Matchwinner Amjed Radhi insisted the defending champions put on a “performance fitting the name of Air Force Club” after their 1-0 win over Syria’s Al Wahda saw them crowned AFC Cup West Asia Zonal champions and book a return to the AFC Cup final for a second consecutive year.
The 28-year-old Iraqi forward sparked wild celebrations in Air Force Club ranks on Tuesday night after his 94th minute header clinched victory in the second leg of the West Asia Zonal final.
Al Wahda had won the first leg 2-1 in their home fixture in Saida and seemed to have done enough to book a spot in the final, but Radhi's late intervention ensured that it was Air Force Club who went through on away goals after a 2-2 aggregate draw.
“I want to thank God for this achievement, we weren't in our best shape during the first leg, and there were some errors in that match,” said the Iraq international.
“Thankfully, we fixed those errors and improved in this match. We knew what we had to do and came up with a performance fitting the name of Air Force Club as we are the defending champions.”
Despite controlling the possession, Air Force Club could not make their domination count for most parts of the match and struggled to break through a resolute Al Wahda defence before Radhi came off the bench to make the difference.
In many ways, it reflected a more difficult Asian campaign for Air Force Club after a change at the helm, compared to last year's triumphant run to the title when they scored at ease.
“We're a champion team. The change of coaches doesn't affect us. It doesn't matter to us if it is Basim Qasim or Hussam Al Sayed at the helm of the team. We play for Air Force Club. Most of our players were here last season too. I think we have improved,” added Radhi.
“As for Hussam Al Sayed, he knows this club a lot. He did well for us and deserves this victory. Hopefully, we can impress him and do well for him in the coming matches, both at home and abroad.”
Al Sayed had been in charge of Al Wahda when the two sides met earlier in the tournament. After moving to Air Force Club in the summer, the Syrian manager has now succeeded in taking them to a second final.
“I want give my appreciation to Al Wahda for their effort – reaching this stage is a big achievement,” said Al Sayed.
“As for Air Force Club, we are the defending champions and we are very ambitious. We aim to retain the title but this will only come through determination, hard work and sacrifice.
“If we were more focused, we could have scored at an earlier stage. Anyway, we are grateful to God for this victory. I want to dedicate this win to the Iraqi people and to all the Air Force fans in particular.”
The holders will now make a return to the tournament decider, where they will face either Tajikistan’s FC Istiklol or JSW Bengaluru of India on November 4.
Photos: Lagardère Sports
Source: the-afc.com