The footballers from war-torn Syria captured the Arab region’s hearts earlier this year when they almost reached their first World Cup Finals. But in the end their dreams were dashed by Australia. Leading the line for Syria on the pitch was Omar Kharbin, who plays club football for leading Saudi side Al Hilal. Another popular Syrian player is Omar Al Somah, who plays for Saudi’s Al Ahli, scoring 115 goals in 110 appearances. By the time these words are published, however, Kharbin will have played his AFC final and is expected to win the Asian player award shortly after.