KL coach Bojan Hodak - Filephoto
KUALA LUMPUR: A must-win game can be a huge burden for coaches and players, but surprisingly that isn’t the case with Kuala Lumpur.
Instead, the City Boys are in a lighthearted mood ahead of their final Group H game against Singaporean club Tampines Rovers in the AFC Cup at the Cheras Football Stadium today.
Kuala Lumpur are in second place with one point but in order to move up one rung, they need to win by more than two goals.
PSM Makassar are currently top of the group with four points on a two-goal difference. Tampines are third without a point after losing to Makassar 1-3 on Monday.
KL coach Bojan Hodak and playmaker Romel Morales were seen exchanging banters during a press conference to indicate their relaxed mood before the game.
“We will play attacking football for sure. Romel just needs to score three, or else his salary will be deducted. So, no pressure,” joked the Croatian.
Morales did not take the dig sitting down.
“Now I know what’s at stake to keep my position in the first eleven of the team,” he chuckled.
“Of course, chances will be created, and I will go for the goals. The coach said no pressure, but I will take that as a challenge,” added the 24-year-old.
Hodak says he is being optimistic for a good reason.
“Our team were held 0-0 by Makassar but we dominated the game and created lots of chances, but just needed to fix our finishing,” said Hodak.
“As far as our fans are concerned we must win although nothing is for certain. It’s up to us if we want to create a good situation or otherwise. We’ve worked hard during training. That will be carried to the game.”
Morales agrees that their next opponents led by Gavin Lee are different from Makassar but assured that they have devised a plan.
“Makassar are aggressive with their attacks while Tampines are more patient.
“They break you down with counter attacks and also have the experience of playing in the continental stage,” he said.
“We’ve to push harder in this game. I believe a quick and aggressive start will get us the win.”
