As expected, it was an action-packed match as former Italian world cup captain and Al Ahli captain Fabio Cannovaro's squad took on his countrymen. With the fast moving game ending in AC Milan being the victorious side with a final score of 2-1 and goals being scored from both sides.
"With the second half of any season being the most important part, this match was a test for us as we worked hard here in Dubai to improve our fitness levels and get stronger with drills that worked the team to the core. We are now prepared to go back to Italy in fine form and feel ready for all of our upcoming matches, including all games to be played for the UEFA Champions League, which we plan on winning," said AC Milan manager, Massimiliano Allegri. "With the position we are in at the top of our league, this time in Dubai has allowed us to become much more focused and work together as a team," he added.
"We were impressed with the quality of the Al Ahli pitch and the facilities at the club are first rate. The training on the beach was especially enjoyable, as it was a real change from our normal training and tested our strength. The trip up the Burj Khalifa was an experience - to be at the top of the world's tallest building that was truly a great opportunity for all of us," Clarence Seedorf, an AC Milan veteran was quoted by an emailed statement from Emirates Airline.
"The goal of today's match was for the players to go out and enjoy the moment, which tonight they did. For them this was a true footballers dream, as they played against some of the world's top football stars, and it was a fabulous opportunity. The team played well and gave it their best shot, and in the end we are proud of the game we played." David O'Leary, Al Ahli's team coach stated. "Now for us we need to concentrate on winning as many matches as possible as we look to win the title. I know with the players I have here - they are good enough to win the UAE League." "We knew it was going to be a tough game against AC Milan, but we were ready and it provided all of our fans with an exciting and quality match at our home field. I was pleased with the way we played and for the youngsters on the team this match was an incredible chance to play with the top players in the world. Now we are going to concentrate on the UAE League and taking that title," said Italian-born Fabio Cannovaro, Al Ahli Team Captain.
