Al Ain striker Laba Kodjo emphasized that every match his team has played this season has been treated like a final, as they prepare to face Al Wahda in the ADIB Cup Final.
In his remarks at the pre-match press conference, Kodjo said: “Every game this season has been like a final for us, and in finals, what matters most is winning and lifting the trophy.”
He added: “We have prepared well for the match against Al Wahda. We know the strength of our opponent, and it will be a tough game. I will give everything I have to help my team win the title.”
Kodjo highlighted that Al Ain’s strength lies in their mentality, explaining that the team approaches every match with the same focus and discipline as a cup final, which has strengthened their consistency and performance.
He concluded: “Finals are won, not played. Performance is important, but the result and winning the trophy are what matter most. I will do my best to help my teammates, whether by scoring or assisting, because we understand what this achievement means to the city of Al Ain and our loyal fans.”
On the other hand, Al Wahda star Dušan Tadić described matches between Al Wahda and Al Ain as classic encounters that go beyond traditional tactical analysis.
He said: “History stays in memory, but every final has its own circumstances. Reaching this stage reflects the effort we have put in throughout the season, regardless of previous results.”
Regarding the chances of both teams, Tadić stated that it is a 50-50 contest, noting that such derbies require a winning mentality from the first minute, along with the courage to showcase technical abilities under pressure.
He added, “Team spirit and attention to detail are the keys to winning the title. We will fight until the last moment to deliver the trophy to Al Wahda fans.”
Tadić concluded by thanking Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank and the UAE Pro League for the excellent organization and for hosting the final press conference.
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