Trapped: Perak’s Mohd Azfar Fikri Azhar is sandwiched between two Pahang players during their Malaysia Cup quarter-final first leg match on Dec 13. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: Pahang should make the most of the rest period in the Super League to strengthen their attack and defensive machineries ahead of the Malaysia Cup semi-finals on Jan 18 and Feb 2.
The Elephants were previously more dependent on their import player from Liberia, Kpah Sherman, as the main attacker in every match.
However, the sharpness and agility of midfielder Manuel Hidalgo, who scored a hattrick in the 3-3 draw with Perak in their Malaysia Cup second leg quarter-final final, provided Pahang with a new option to strengthen their attack.
Pahang manager Fandi Ahmad is expecting the attack and defence machinery to be more cohesive and energetic when facing Sabah later in the semi-finals.
“The main focus of the team is to ensure that the attack machinery is sharper and at the same time, the defenders will be more prepared and avoid making simple mistakes.
“In addition to training, mental strength is also given priority considering the fierce competition that we can expect to face when playing in the semi-finals,” said the Singapore football legend.
Fandi also demanded that his men maintain their current performance, especially discipline throughout the match, and not allow their opponents to score an easy goal due to their own mistakes.
“When you are at this level (semi-final), if possible, do not repeat the simple mistakes that were made during the quarter-final fixture with Perak in the second quarter-final.”
Pahang reached the Malaysia Cup semi-finals for the first time since 2019 after a hard-fought 4-3 aggregate victory over Perak at the Temerloh Municipal Council Stadium.
In the semi-finals, Pahang will first visit Likas Stadium on Jan 18 before playing at the Temerloh Municipal Council Stadium on Feb 2.
