Abu Dhabi: Defending Champions Al Jazira has been drawn against Kalba in the President’s Cup opener.
The draw for the 2016-17 season was held in a glittering function at the Armed Forces Club on Saturday.
However, the interesting part of Saturday’s draw came after Al Ain, who suffered a heartbreak after losing to Al Jazira in penalties last season, was picked to lock horns against Dubai’s reputed outfits Al Ahli.
Last season, Al Ain had to surrender the title in dramatic fashion after the scores were tied 1-1. Mohannad Salem found the framework, the fourth time for Al Ain that dashed their hopes. Al Jazira ultimately triumphed 6-5 after 13 penalties had gone by.
The winner of Al Jazira versus Kalba match would take on the winner of Al Wahda and Dibba while Al Ain-Al Ahli winner will meet the winners of the match between Al Nasr and Group 2 Qualifier.
Al Wasl will play the opening round against Baniyas while Sharjah will face off with the qualifier of Group 1. The winner of Hatta versus Dafrah match will either meet Al Shabab or Emirates.
Outstanding players of the 2015-2016 season were also given awards.
Santos of Hatta Club walked away with the best foreign player award while Mohammad Rashid Surour of Dibba Al Hisn was the best Emirati top scorer of the season. Mohammad Ahmad Rashid of Ajman Club was adjudged the best player of the season.
