Al Jazira boss Henk ten Cate claimed his side have put the UAE football on the map after valiant 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the semi-finals FIFA Club World Cup.
An inspired display by goalkeeper Ali Khaseifa thwarted the Spanish and European champions early on before Romarinho fired Al Jazira into an unlikely lead.
But Welsh superstar Gareth Bale came off the bench to score a late winner as Real Madrid avoided embarrassment at Zayed Sports City Stadium on Wednesday.
“I am very proud of my team. We did an amazing job, a small club like we are,” the 63-year-old Dutch coach praised his team efforts as it was quoted by Sport360.
“We put the UAE on the map. I think this is something special.”
Al Jazira will now face Mexican giants Pachuca in the match for third place in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.