Emirati Motorcyclist Rides 950 km to Qatar Match
A passionate football fan from the UAE has taken an extraordinary journey to support his national team. Sixty-year-old Isaac Mohammed Sharif Al Shizawi rode 950 kilometers from Ajman to Doha on his motorbike, aiming to cheer on the Emirati squad as they compete against Qatar in a crucial World Cup qualifier.
Journey to Doha
Al Shizawi began his adventure on a Thursday afternoon, departing Ajman at 4:30 PM. After a brief stop in Al Ruwais for rest, he continued his ride the following morning, arriving in Doha after evening prayers. He completed the entire journey in just one day, showcasing his dedication and enthusiasm for Emirati football.
“I had planned to travel to Qatar as soon as the playoff draw was announced,” Al Shizawi explained. He expressed his hope that his journey would coincide with the team’s historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. “This match against Qatar is a landmark for Emirati football,” he stated, reflecting on the significance of the game.
A Veteran’s Commitment
With 30 years of motorcycling experience, Al Shizawi found joy in the ride despite the physical demands. “The fatigue of the trip disappears the moment the team wins,” he remarked. His unwavering support for the national team drives him to undertake such journeys, and he hopes to replicate this experience next year if the team qualifies for the World Cup.
Al Shizawi emphasized the importance of the match, urging players to remain focused and give their all. “This is the final step towards the World Cup, a dream we have waited for since our first qualification in 1990 in Italy,” he noted.
Support for Fellow Fans
In addition to his personal journey, Al Shizawi expressed a desire for more tickets to be made available for Emirati fans attending the match at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium. He acknowledged that many supporters would gather outside the stadium to cheer for the team, regardless of ticket availability. “We hope the team secures victory so the celebrations can begin in Doha and Souq Waqif for this historic qualification,” he added.
FAQs
Why did Isaac Al Shizawi ride to Doha?
Isaac Al Shizawi rode to Doha to support the Emirati national football team in their World Cup qualifier against Qatar, hoping to witness their historic qualification for the tournament.
How long did the journey take?
Al Shizawi completed the 950-kilometer journey from Ajman to Doha in one day, leaving at 4:30 PM and arriving the next evening after a brief overnight stop.
What are Al Shizawi’s plans if the team qualifies?
If the Emirati national team qualifies for the World Cup, Al Shizawi plans to undertake a similar journey from the UAE to the United States next year to support the team.
Conclusion
Isaac Al Shizawi’s remarkable journey highlights the passion and dedication of Emirati football fans as they rally behind their national team. With the match against Qatar looming, the hope for qualification remains strong among supporters. Al Shizawi’s commitment serves as an inspiration for fans, emphasizing the importance of unity and support in achieving their football dreams.
The journey undertaken by Al Shizawi is emblematic of the deep-rooted passion for football in the UAE, where the sport has seen significant growth over the years. The Emirati national team has made strides in international competitions, and the upcoming World Cup qualifiers are seen as a pivotal moment for the players and their supporters. The enthusiasm surrounding the match against Qatar reflects not only a rivalry but also a collective aspiration for success on a global stage.
Al Shizawi’s commitment to traveling such a distance underscores the lengths to which fans will go to support their teams. This dedication is often mirrored by other fans who travel across the region to attend matches, fostering a sense of community among supporters. The camaraderie among fans, whether in the stadium or watching from afar, plays a crucial role in creating an electric atmosphere that can motivate players on the field. As the match approaches, the anticipation builds, with many hoping for a memorable performance that could pave the way for future opportunities in international tournaments.
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UAE Faces Qatar in Crucial World Cup Qualifier Match
