KHALFAN DROPPED FROM UAE SQUAD

Midfielder will not be going to Asian Games

THE United Arab Emirates have dropped Mohammed Khalfan Al-Harazi from their Asian Games squad for causing the free-for-all in Friday’s 2-0 defeat to Malaysia in an Under-23 friendly at the Shah Alam Stadium.

It was announced by the Emirates Football Federation (EFA) on their website yesterday.

EFA also apologised to the FA of Malaysia (FAM) for the brawl and stated that it did not represent UAE’s conduct.

Malaysia were leading 2-0 through goals from Safawi Rasid (27th minute) and Akhyar Rashid (64th) when UAE players resorted to rough play to disorientate Ong Kim Swee’s squad.

Referee Suhaizi Shukri failed to take control of the match as tempers flared up.

It turned ugly when Khalfan elbowed Malaysian defender Adib Zainuddin in the second half of stoppage time.

Players from both teams were then throwing punches and kicks, and it got worse when the UAE’s team officials got involved in the melee.

“We are upset with the entire incident. It does not represent our football and we have dropped Khalfan from the squad.

“He will play no part in the Asian Games. We axed him based on the team’s report over the brawl,” said the statement.

FAM general-secretary Stuart Ramalingam confirmed that the national body have received a letter of apology from EFA.

“We had discussions with EFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) over the brawl.

“We will follow up with AFC in regard to the incident after they look into the reports from the match commissioner and referee,” said Stuart.