Al Ain defender Eric Gerets stated that his team faced a strong and difficult match against United in the semi-final of the President's Cup, held on Sunday evening. He pointed out that the match required significant physical effort and high concentration from the players, especially given the strength and organization of the opponent on the field. Gerets noted that reaching multiple finals this season is a positive step for Al Ain, but the team aims to win titles during the current season. Al Ain overcame United in the semi-final with a 2-0 victory. The match, characterized by physical rivalry and an even contest, went into extra time after the original time ended in a goalless draw. After the match, Eric told "Al Ittihad": "It was a very difficult match because we faced a well-organized and physically strong team. We know very well that they have played exceptional matches in recent times." He added: "We knew before the match that it would be a tough confrontation, and we discussed within the team the need to focus from the start, because such matches are decided by details." Gerets continued: "Playing in extra time was very difficult, especially with the great effort the players made throughout the match, but the team showed a strong character until the end." He also referred to the team's ambitions for the upcoming period, saying: "We now have two finals, and we strive to focus fully to achieve victory." Gerets explained: "Reaching more than one final this season is a positive thing, but we need to win a title, because so far we have not won any. We believe in our ability to win all tournaments, and we must be fully focused in the upcoming matches to achieve this goal." He concluded his remarks, saying: "Every match is a final for us, because all teams want to beat us, so we need to make the maximum possible effort in every encounter."
