Johor DT have certainly had a difficult 2015, when it comes to domestic football action, but they will take pride in their achievements in the AFC Cup this season. After four games in the group stages, the Southern Tigers are currently on top of their group and they only require a point from their match against East Bengal, to book their spot in the next stage of the competition.
After their defeat to Perak last Friday, the Johor FA management utilized the option of ‘resting’ Bojan Hodak, and irrespective of what that term specifically means, the Croatian is no longer the head coach. The squad arrived in India alongside interim head coach Ismail Ibrahim, though rumours suggests that former South China head coach Mario Gomez is on the verge of being drafted in as Bojan’s replacement.
As usual, they will be without new signings Patito Rodriguez and Alhaji Kamara; both of whom can only be registered for the next stage of the competition. But Luciano Figueroa is back and most of the local players, including Safiq Rahim, are likely to feature in this one.
“We have come here to try to win the game, and so we have brought a very strong team with us,” Ibrahim told reporters during the pre-match press conference. “East Bengal are a very good team and they played very well when they came to Malaysia.”
And they could have an advantage in this game, as East Bengal are likely to name a second-string line-up to preserve their injury-ridden squad. The Indian side applied the same method against Balestier Khalsa in their last match, winning it 3-0 and as far as they are concerned, the priority remains the I-League.
“Theoretically we can still qualify for the Round of 16 but realistically it’s going to be very difficult. Especially as I now have three more injuries in Saumik Dey, Milan Susak and Leo Bertos,” said Schattorie.
“My biggest fear is to get more injuries, so although we will try to win it will be difficult considering the fitness level of my players.”
This game, could be the much-needed boost of confidence for all Johor DT players, especially since it could ensure their progression into the knockout stages. In fact, a win tonight would also see them go through as group winners. There’s plenty to play for, and certainly plenty of action to expect. This should be an entertaining affair.
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