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UAE ACL Crowds Up Despite Elimination from Group Stage

 

According to a recent AFC report, the UAE has recorded an increase of more than 60% in average crowd attendances at 2011 AFC Champions League (ACL) matches, making it the second best performer amongst the 10 competing nations.

This increase, which saw the average crowd jump from 2,947 to 4,726 this season, is even more significant considering it goes against the overall trend across Asia where the average ACL attendance has decreased by 2.1%.

The UAE is one of only four countries to improve, with Indonesia recording the largest increase, followed by UAE, Korea and Japan.

"It is pleasing to see such a significant increase in match day attendances for AFC Champions League matches and whilst the overall performance of UAE teams in the competition was disappointing, it does demonstrate a real interest amongst local fans," said Carlo Nohra, CEO of the UAE Football League (UFL).

While the four UAE teams competing in the ACL did not quality to the next stage, overall there was an improvement on the previous year's performances. In 2010 all four UAE teams finished 4th in their groups, whereas in this year's competition only Al Jazira finished 4th whilst Al Wahda, Al Ain and Emirates Club all came 3rd in their groups.

 "If we can continue to improve our results on the pitch then we will undoubtedly see the trend of higher crowd attendances carry on at an even greater rate next season, ensuring the ACL fixtures are an important part of the UAE football calendar," concluded Nohra.