United Arab Emirates coach Paulo Bento said he hopes his team will not be distracted by the huge support Palestine is expected to receive when the two teams meet in their second Asian Cup Group C encounter, Reuters reports.

Palestine enjoyed massive support at the stadium during their 4-1 loss to Iran in their group opener. Iranian fans also gave the Palestine team a warm welcome in a show of solidarity, with the conflict in Gaza raging for over 100 days.

“For me, no. It’s not going to distract me … I hope it doesn’t disturb our players as well,” Bento told reporters ahead of tomorrow’s game at Al Janoub Stadium.

UAE, semi-finalists in 2019, beat Hong Kong 3-1 in their opener and Bento is looking to secure six points and put one foot in the knockout stage.

While Palestine is seeking their first-ever win at the Asian Cup since making their debut at the continental championship in 2015, the Portuguese coach said he is not taking them lightly.