Johor Darul Ta’zim will be playing Philippines’ Global FC at a return leg fixture at the Rizal Memorial Stadium today.
Although the Southern Tigers enjoyed a stunning 4-0 win over Global FC in the first leg of the fixture (14th of March), things could take a different turn in Manila.
Johor Darul Ta’zim’s head coach Benjamin Mora and captain Safiq Rahim are expecting to face a tough battle from Global FC. The Manila-based club, under coach Toshiaki Imai, will be determined to avenge their 4-0 loss at the Larkin. The artificial football pitch at the stadium might also pose a problem for the Southern Tigers.
Johor Darul Ta’zim’s ego and confidence has been bruised after they lost to Pahang 3-1 in the FA Cup quarterfinals fixture last weekend.
Therefore, Benjamin Mora’s boys will be looking to secure their second win against Global FC to boost their confidence and to stay on top of the table.
“Global FC is a good team for us, thus I will expect a fierce match today.” Johor Darul Ta’zim’s captain, Safiq Rahim said.
“However, we still want three points to stay on top position. We have already prepared for the best in this AFC Cup competition.” the captain added.
Johor Darul Ta’zim are currently leading the Group F table with only one point ahead of Global FC, which means they really need this win.
Benjamin Mora’s squad, who will play without defender S.Kunanlan, has yet to decide his line-up for the fixture against Global. Mora’s biggest concern is that his players have not had enough time to rest and recover after their FA cup fixture last weekend.
“I need to assess my players’ condition before I decide my lineup. Some could still be tired from Saturday’s Malaysia FA Cup tie.” coach Mora said.
“Our aim is three points against Global — it will help us reach the last 16 stage.” he added.
Good luck JDT!
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