Johor Darul Takzim (JDT) head coach feels that they had not been lucky enough after The Southern Tiger’s dream of qualifying for third round of the AFC Champions League was destroyed following a string of saves from Muangthong United goalkeeper.
JDT lost 3-0 during a penalty shoot-out as Kawin Thamsatchanan saved all three penalties of Jorge Pereyra Diaz, Marcos Antonio and Hariss Harun.
Regardless of the outcome, Mario Gomez was extremely satisfied with his team’s commitment and desire to go all out and play a great game.
“I accept the defeat with an open heart and believe that luck was the only factor separating my team from qualifying into the next round. Our game play was consistent throughout the whole match, including during extra-time,” he said according to Harian Metro.
“Football can be cruel at times. We played our hearts out for 120 minutes and we were forced to accept that a penalty shoot-out ruined our chances of advancing.
“However, that will not be the end as I want to open a new chapter for us to continue our consistency so we can win every match. In fact, I was very impressed with the level of play of our team during the match,” he added.
JDT, as reigning champions, will be begin their AFC Cup campaign against Ayeyawady United of Myanmar at the Larkin Stadium on February 24.
The both of them are featured in Group H, alongside Benggaluru FC from India and Loa Toyota FC from Laos.
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