Threatening backline: Sabah’s Joao Pedro will have to face some of the best defenders in the league when they face Pahang. — Sabah FC
PETALING JAYA: Sabah aim to get to the Malaysia Cup final after 22 years with Joao Pedro looking to be a catalyst for them.
Sabah, who have put aside their disappointment of losing 0-4 to Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) in the Super League last week, will take on Pahang in the first leg of the semi-finals at the Likas Stadium in Kota Kinabalu tomorrow.
Brazilian striker Pedro said they have moved on from the JDT defeat and are focused on bringing the Borneo club to the final.
“Our upcoming game against Pahang is going to be a Cup game. It was a different competition and we got a chance to reach the final.
“For us, it would be amazing and we are going to give our best to achieve our target,” said the 24-year-old.
But he admits the challenge against the Elephants would not be an easy one as they are blessed with some fine talents.
Pedro will have to face some of the best defenders in the league, especially Serbian centreback Aleksandar Cvetkovic and Argentine hitman Stefano Brundo, but it is a challenge he is ready to take on.
“It’s going to be hard, they have a good line-up, but we are also ready to do it and I’m sure it’s going to be an amazing show for everyone.”
The Rhinos last played in the final in 2003, where they lost to now-defunct Selangor MPPJ 0-3 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
Getting to the semi-final itself was a sweet success for Sabah, as they last did it seven years ago in 2018, when they faced eventual champions Perak, who thrashed them 7-2 on aggregate in the semi-final.
Pedro has been a key man up front, scoring seven goals in 12 games in all competitions.
If Sabah want a win against Pahang in the two-legged affair, they need to ensure ample ammunition is provided for the Viettel player.
Pedro has the belief that his side will do that well.
“Since joining them in September, everything has been well. You can see we are playing a good brand of football, the chemistry is superb and I am glad to be part of this.
“For this to continue, for everyone to be happy, a spot in the final would be special.”
