كتب : Hatem Maher
Many have tipped the African champions to improve on their third-place finish in the 2006 edition after clinching a record-breaking sixth Champions League title.
With expectations being sky-high, Ahli may be forced to play under pressure in order to fulfill the lofty aims of their fans.
But Abdul-Hamid has a different view.
“Coach Manuel Jose told us to look for entertainment in Japan,” he told FilGoal.com on Friday.
“Participating in the Club World Cup is a reward for our Champions League victory, so we must enjoy it.”
However, the 29-year-old guardian insisted Ahli would be also looking to produce good results in the tournament.
“We are fully aware that we have to play well in Japan and finish in a respectful position.”
Abdul-Hamid has become Ahli’s first-choice goalie since the abrupt departure of Egyptian international Essam Al-Hadari in April.
He is gradually gaining the fans’ trust, who vowed to help him become even better than Al-Hadari.
“I’m in a relaxed mood. The fans trust me and are ready to forgive me for any uncommon blunder.”