OFFICIAL DRAW SETS THE PLAYING FIELD FOR FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP UAE 2017
Tuesday 10th October
Al Jazira could face Real Madrid in the second semi-final, whilst C.F. Pachuca could go up against a South American rival in the first semi-final
The Official Draw was held yesterday (Monday) in the UAE capital and host city, Abu Dhabi. FIFA and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) unveiled who the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2017 contenders competing in the world’s biggest club football tournament from 6 to 16 December in Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Sports City and Al Ain’s Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium.
This December, all eyes will be on Abu Dhabi as millions around the world will be following the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2017. As the host city ramps up preparations for the 14th edition of the event the LOC is looking forward to welcoming heroes of the game as they vie for the most sought-after club title from 6 to 16 December.
H.E. Major-General Mohammed Khalfan Al Romaithi, Chairman of the Higher LOC commented, during his welcoming speech. “We are honoured that the UAE once again is hosting this world-renowned tournament – eight years after hosting it in 2009 and 2010. This tournament will be an extraordinary celebration of professional football, international talent and best in class skill, showcasing the great facilities, hospitality and unique culture our nation offers as a world-class sporting destination.”
“As the number one sport in the world, football has the power to unite communities. Football continues to inspire our nation’s journey and we welcome the clubs and fans to the UAE this December for the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2017,” added Al Romaithi.
“The tournament is set to be a thrilling occasion and today’s draw has seen some very entertaining games to be played in both Abu Dhabi and Al Ain,” said His Excellency Aref Hamad Al Awani, Tournament Director of the Local Organising Committee. “We are excited that the UAE has the opportunity to host such a prestigious tournament and we encourage fans to buy tickets at their earliest convenience.”
To this date four teams have qualified for this year’s edition of the competition: Auckland City FC of New Zealand (OFC Champions League winners), C.F. Pachuca of Mexico (CONCACAF Champions League ;winners), Real Madrid C.F. of Spain (UEFA Champions League winners) and UAE’s host team and Arabian Gulf League winner, Al Jazira FC. The winners of this year’s AFC Champions League, Copa Libertadores and CAF Champions League will be determined in November.
“I would like to thank the Abu Dhabi Sports Council for inviting me today. I am proud to have been selected as a Draw Assistant and we are blessed to host this tournament,” said draw assistant, Abdulrahim Jumaa.
“People can expect a lot from the tournament being hosted in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. I am sure fans will enjoy the tournament and love the UAE,” Jumaa added.
Commenting on the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2017, former Manchester United defender Mikaël Silvestre said; “It is a great opportunity for football fans to witness some of the best football talent in the world. All of the teams participating are champions. It is high quality and the fans are really in for a treat.