We deserve it: Terengganu players rejoice after beating Penang 2-0 in the final at the Cheras Football Stadium. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
TERENGGANU coach Badrul Afzan Razali dreams of the big stage after leading the state to the Malaysia Games (Sukma) football gold medal.
On Friday, the east coast side defeated Penang 2-0 in the final at the Cheras Football Stadium in Kuala Lumpur.
Badrul, who is the coach of Terengganu II in the Premier League, said he would consider taking up a role in the Super League if that was what the management wanted.
Their current Super League coach Nafuzi Zain has revealed earlier this month that this could be his last season.
With the Sukma achievement, Badrul may be promoted to the first team as he understands the values and playing philosophy of the club.
“It’s a dream for any coach to be in the Super League. If I get a chance to coach Terengganu in the Super League next year, I would surely take it up but it all depends on the management,” said the former Kedah player.
“I’ve coached Terengganu II for the last two years and now we have won the Sukma gold, which is my biggest achievement as a coach.
“The next step? I want to test myself on the bigger stage, but I also have to be patient for my chance. If it is fated, it may happen next year. If it doesn’t, I will wait patiently.”
In the final, Terengganu’s goals were scored by Safwan Mazlan in the 23rd minute and an own goal by Penang’s defender Mohd Aidil Azuan in the 84th minute.
Badrul said the key to their success was teamwork.
“I always believed in working as one, not as an individual. All our 21 boys (including reserves) showed great character and charisma,” he said.
“The future of Terengganu football is looking good. We grew from every match to win the gold. Credit will have to go to the boys.”
Team captain Safwan said they did not let their favourites’ tag to derail their focus.
“The favourites’ tag was in our heads, but we did not entertain it. We just followed the instructions given and created history by ending a 12-year wait,” said Safwan.
Meanwhile, Penang coach Akmal Rizal Rakhli was proud of his charges despite the defeat as they have ended a 36-year wait for a Sukma medal.
“We lost, but this is a satisfying achievement as a coach. We weren’t even expected to be in the final, but we fought hard to be here,” said the former national striker, who was also Badrul’s teammate in Kedah during his playing days.
“In the final, if we make simple mistakes, we would be punished. That happened against Terengganu. They were technically and tactically good.
“But my boys gave their best. I’ve to laud their commitment. I am just four years into coaching, this year is my first year as a head coach. This is just the beginning. I’ve lots more to achieve with the team.”
