Auckland humble Al Ahli to move into quarterfinals

Abu Dhabi: The amateurs from Auckland City FC yielded more ball possession to their professional rivals from the UAE, Al Ahli Club. Auckland's dominance in attack was much slimmer as Al Ahli had 12 corner kicks to Auckland's one.

But some intensive homework on their opponents and a professional attitude were the pillars on which Auckland based their first victory in the Fifa Club World Cup, said coach Paul Posa.

In Wednesday's Fifa Club World Cup 2009 opener, Auckland slammed the door on Al Ahli's hopes with a 2-0 win, thanks to classy goals by Adam Dickinson (45th) and Chad Coombes (67th).

"The boys are very happy, ecstatic. We weren't the favourites but it was our night. We knew their system going into the game, so we just tried to counter that and it worked. We knew going into the game that we would create chances. It was just a question of taking them, and fortunately we did," Posa said.

While the winners celebrated as if they had won the title, Posa outlined his version of what constitutes "professional".

"The single most important factor was our assistant coach's Ramon Tribulietz' homework on the Al Ahli side. We exactly knew what to expect, and once we saw the line-up we knew how they would be playing," said Posa.

Tribulietz, who hails from Barcelona, holds a physical education and sports degree and specialises in the conditioning of players along with tactical and team organisation.

"For me the most important qualities of a professional player are his professional attitude, his dedication and wanting to learn and improve. All these qualities cost us nothing. The message I have pushed into my players over the last six months is that a professional attitude costs nothing," Posa said.

"Income is a different issue and in New Zealand we do not have a professional league. Yes we are amateurs, some of our players work, the others study. I have a job outside my coaching assignment. But our players have a professional attitude and our support staff are extremely professional," the coach added.

Auckland now take on Mexico's Atlante in their quarterfinal clash at the giant Zayed Sports City Stadium on Saturday.

Commenting on the next match, Posa said: "Atlante are a very good side. Aside from Barcelona and Estudiantes, they're the classiest team in the competition, so it will be really tough. Hopefully we'll be able to upset their rhythm."