Sport | Football
Start of a new beginning for Lyon
The top official from visiting Olympique Lyon has assured that today's exhibition match against Al Shabab is only the start of many more things to follow in the future.
- By Alaric Gomes, Senior Reporter
- Published: 00:04 May 30, 2008
- Lyon celebrate after winning the Coupe de France Final against Paris Saint-Germain at Stade de France, Saint Denis, France.
- Image Credit: EPA
Dubai: The top official from visiting Olympique Lyon has assured that today's exhibition match against Al Shabab is only the start of many more things to follow in the future.
"We are here to show our friendship towards Al Shabab and the people of the UAE," said Jean-Michel Aulas, President of Lyon.
"And this match will definitely not be the only thing happening between the two teams. We are keen to follow many more exchanges between the two teams in the future," he added.
In fact, the Lyon president revealed that plans are also afoot to run a joint project between players here and France. "We are still in the discussion stage and things should be clearer very soon."
Lyon meet UAE League Champions Al Shabab in an exhibition match meant to kick-start the golden jubilee celebrations of the Dubai club.
"This is a double celebration for us as we want to share in the joy and success of Al Shabab.
"Our players too have worked hard and they deserve to be here," Aulas said.
Lyon won the French Cup last Sunday with an extra-time 1-0 win against arch-rivals Paris St Germain.
Results
Earlier in the month, led by their charismatic skipper Juninho, Lyon had powered their way to a record seventh straight league crown.
Lyon also won the Peace Cup in Seoul and the French Champions Trophy at the start of the season. "It has been a very successful year where the club came up with some exceptional results.
"We want to ensure this success continues next season," Aulas added.
The president felt that Lyon has a much bigger role to play in Europe after being placed third behind Manchester United and Chelsea in the Uefa Club rankings.
"We are very close to fulfilling a lot of our aspirations.
"And for this money is necessary, but not enough," he said.
Al Shabab coach Toninho Cerezo, who has spent a decade in Italy during his playing career, promised an entertaining match.
Important moment
"Playing against such a big team is a very important moment for Al Shabab. It will be nice for all Dubai residents to come and support our side tomorrow," Cerezo said.
UAE national team member Salim Saad, one of the famous Saad brothers, felt it is a privilege to play against such a talented side like Lyon.
"I want to exchange my jersey with Juninho at the end of the match," Saad said.
Factbox: Exhibition game
Lyon vs Al Shabab
- Kick-off: 7.50 pm
- Venue: Al Shabab Club ground, behind Carrefour, Al Mamzar
- To be won: 16 motorbikes, three buggies, two cars in a raffle draw after the match
- Tickets: All are welcome - free entrance
- Other attractions: Kids' Village, folk dances and performances, face painting, henna drawing, fireworks display.
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