PETALING JAYA: Johor Darul Ta’zim coach Hector Bidoglio believes the Southern Tigers are the greatest team in South-East Asia.
And he wants them to prove it - by winning the AFC Champions League (ACL) Elite.
JDT will look to book a spot in the quarter-finals of the premier competition if they beat Thai giants Buriram United in the last-16, second-leg match at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri today.
In the first-leg, both sides eked out a 0-0 draw at the Chang Arena in Buriram on March 4.
Bidoglio said the game was the most important in the club’s current season.
“I only want 100% for our fans, boss and the state. We want to go on and compete against the best because we have been doing well in the competition,” the Venezuelan said during the pre-match press conference at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium yesterday.
“We want to be dominant on the field by creating lots of chances. In my opinion, JDT are the greatest club in South-East Asia now and we need to show that. I believe a lot in my players.”
Bidoglio added that he was treating the game against Buriram like a final.
“For me, this is part of our journey to show that we are growing even stronger in Asia. Physically, tactically and mentally, we have to be at our best. We have to play with our head and heart.
“We want to win in 90 minutes but I have a squad capable of playing an extra 30 minutes and even taking penalties.”
As for his first 11 against Buriram, Bidoglio said he would only announce his side a few hours before the game.
“I I am blessed with many great players with great quality, skill and experience.
“Whether they are in 11, bench or stands, I love them all because they give their best commitment to the club,” he said.
The quarter-final stage will be contested in single matches, which will be played in Saudi Arabia.
