Sparky’s Column

The Digital Boss

"The Boss" are indeed the boss after winning a second Etisalat Pro League title in a row, and their 11th overall. The club are unparalleled in their ability to gather silverware and have four more titles to their name than their nearest historical rivals Al Wasl. The title was sewn up very neatly with an Asamoah Gyan hat-trick putting Dubai Club to the sword. The celebrations continued long into the night with much flag-waving on the streets of Al Ain. The thing I enjoyed most was the impromptu on-pitch TV chat show featuring the Al Ain squad at the conclusion of the match. They even had a set with chairs, stage and lights to add to the David Letterman-on-a-football-pitch look. The next phase for the teams development is much sort after continent success. The defeat by Al Hilal leaves the club in a precarious position in terms of qualifying for the next stage of the tournament. The club have the ability in the UAE and are untouchable on home soil but another disappointing Champions league would take a bit of shine off the title win.

The progression of UAE football relies on the continued commercialisation of the core product i.e. the game itself. The news that Pro Evolution Soccer will include all AFC Champions League teams is massive. If you are of a certain vintage like myself, you may be left scratching your head at that statement, but let me tell you that football video games are big business and they are also the way a lot of young fans learn about teams. If you ask a kid who regularly plays any question about the virtual version of a team, they will know the answer. If it's players stats, stadium names or player value then the games have it covered and the video gamers absorb them all. The equation is simple: if you are in the video game, then you are in the minds of young football fans.

Al Nasr fielded an all-Emirati starting lineup for their match versus Sepahan of Iran. The gesture by Zenga showed belief in local players and the fact that they can compete. The side proved competitive, if not successful in the final result. The 2-1 loss was no disgrace and showed the young Emirati players at Al Nasr are brimming with potential and ability. I am sure there won't be many teams in the world that can feature an entire eleven of domestic players in a continental competition, so it is another reason to celebrate.