Basim out to turn heads at Asian Cup

DOHA — Young Palestine player Mohammed Basim Rashid is hoping his skills will not go unnoticed at the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 so that he can grab a professional contract with a top club in the region.

The central midfielder was in an upbeat mood as he spoke to the-AFC.com on Palestine’s chances in the Continental showpiece, saying they aim to create a flutter or two in the UAE, an AFC press release said.

“We are a highly motivated team who will spare no effort to show we belong in the Asian Cup. We are not playing in the tournament just to make up the numbers,” Basim said during an exclusive interview at his team hotel in Doha where Palestine are preparing for the event.

“Despite all the difficulties we have a fairly competitive league comprising 12 teams. The players have a great desire to excel and better their lives. They all want to get into the national team and do their best for their country,” said Basim who was part of the Palestine U-23 team earlier this year which took part in the AFC U23 Championship in China PR.

“I played the AFC U23 Championship in China earlier this year and then in the Asian Games in Jakarta. That was my last tournament in that age group. I was noticed by the senior team coach (Noureddine Ould Ali) who then asked me to join the national team, and here I am.”

Basim, who has a psychology degree from the University of St. Francis in Illinois, US, said that like other footballers he too harbours professional ambitions.

“Every footballer eventually wants to play for a club outside his country. Unfortunately, the Palestine league is not watched by many outside. That is why the Asian Cup is so important from our point of view. It gives us a chance to do something for our country and prove that we belong at this level. It is also a great occasion to display our skills and impress everybody.”

When asked how players of Palestine-origin based in Europe and South America have gelled into the team, Basim said that was not an issue at all.

“For any player getting into the Palestine national team, it’s an honour and a privilege. It’s not easy to be selected for the national side. They are very motivated. They want to do well for Palestine and also get noticed.”

Palestine are in Group B in the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 with holders Australia, Syria and Jordan, not an easy draw by any stretch of imagination.

We are a highly motivated team who will spare no effort to show we belong in the Asian Cup. We are not playing in the tournament just to make up the numbers

Mohammed Basim Rashid