Ahli's players became very familiar with the Japanese culture having advanced to the FIFA Club World Cup (CWC) for two consecutive times, yet their fascination with this oriental nation has not seized. "It's a sophisticated country and I can't praise it enough," Ahli captain Shadi Mohamed was quoted as saying by FIFA's official website. Japan is renowned worldwide for its culture and tradition as well as the dedication and kindliness of its people, a point that Egyptian international Emad Meteb stressed on. "Japan is a very advanced country with friendly people who are professional in everything they do," said Meteb. On the note of being professional, Ahli's star player, Mohamed Abou-Treika, reflected on the team's experience in the tournament after the semi-final defeat against Internacional of Brazil on Wednesday. "I think we can be proud of how we played, although we still have third place to aim for," Abou-Treika said after the 2-1 defeat to the Copa Libertadores champions.
Abou-Treika is hopeful he will return to Japan next year The African champions improved on their last place finish from last year and could improve further if they beat Club America of Mexico in the third place playoff on Sunday. Flavio Amado, who is the tournament's top scorer with his two goals against Auckland City FC and Internacional respectively, echoed Abou-Treika's sentiments. "I think on the whole it's been a positive experience, as we came here to improve on last year's performance and that's what we did. Of course, now we've got our sights set on third place," said the Angolan striker. CAF Player of the Year nominee, Abou-Treika, said that he and his teammates have learned a lot this time around in Japan, noting that the Egyptian giants will do their best to return next year. "Hopefully, all this will help us return again next year," added the Egypt international.
