Hussein Rahimi dedicates Al Ain’s win over Al Nassr to late father

Hussein Rahimi dedicated his two-goal performance in Al Ain’s 4-0 victory over Al Nassr to his late father, who died only days before the AFC Champions League Elite match.

The UAE side produced a dominant display against their Saudi visitors in their opening fixture, with Rahimi scoring twice at Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium. His brother, Sufian Rahimi, added a third before Giakoumakis completed the scoring.

Speaking to Abu Dhabi Sports after the match, Hussein Rahimi said the result had been achieved despite the family’s recent loss.

“First, I pray for the soul of my father, who passed away a few days ago, along with my brother Sufian,” he said. “The pain of losing him is still affecting us, but that did not stop us from being present and performing our duty with the team.

“Thank God, this victory and the good performance I produced with my team-mates were dedicated to his soul. I want to tell him that in every match I play, I will follow all the advice he gave us during his life.”

Rahimi also promised Al Ain’s supporters that the team would compete strongly across all of its campaigns this season.

“We promise the fans that we will present an honourable image in every competition this season, whether in the Asian competition, the league or the professional cup,” he said.

“We ask them to continue supporting us as they did today. The atmosphere in the stadium was exceptional. The match against Al Nassr was not easy at all against a team that has been producing excellent performances this season.

“Trust in the team. We will live up to your expectations.”

The striker said Al Ain’s concentration from the opening whistle had been central to their success against Al Nassr.

“Our full focus from the first minute until the final moment made the difference,” Rahimi added. “Matches like this require 100% concentration. Beating Al Nassr with a positive result is not easy, but the team spirit and collective work brought us this victory.”

Rahimi, who is Moroccan, also thanked the club’s leadership for its support since he joined Al Ain.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed and Sheikh Sultan for everything they have given us since I joined Al Ain,” he said. “What they provide is truly significant. We tell them that what you are seeing today is only the beginning, and we must give more and work for this club.”

He finished by praising Al Ain’s supporters and the wider UAE fanbase.

“The UAE fans and Al Ain supporters are a great audience and deserve every respect and appreciation, both inside and outside the stadium,” Rahimi said. “They deserve this joy and more, and we promise to keep working to put smiles on their faces.”