PETALING JAYA: There’s just something about the Cheras Football Stadium and Paulo Josue.
The Kuala Lumpur captain and striker again delivered on familiar turf, scoring a crucial equaliser in Malaysia’s 1-1 draw with Cape Verde in an international friendly on Thursday and extending his love affair with the stadium.
Josue’s late strike in the 79th minute cancelled out Cape Verde’s early lead, salvaging a spirited result for Harimau Malaya against the world No. 72 side. More than just a goal, it was a moment that capped off a composed team performance and served as a statement of intent heading into the next friendly.
“It is always special to score here, especially with the national team,” said Josue.
“The coach had a word with me before the game - he wanted less touches and more goals, and that stuck with me. First chance, first goal. It was an unbelievable night.”
Cape Verde had taken an early lead through Sidny Cabral in the ninth minute, exploiting a sluggish start from Malaysia, who were playing their first competitive match after a month-long off-season break.
Despite a slow start, Cklamovski’s men tightened up, switching to a five-man defence to nullify Cape Verde’s pace and possession play.
“We managed to contain their possession and aggression with the back five,” Josue explained.
“It was tough. We have had no games for 30 days, then just a few intense training sessions. But we kept ourselves in it and took our chance when the game opened up.”
Josue, who has hinted that he wishes to remain in Kuala Lumpur beyond his current stint, looked at home the moment he stepped on the pitch.
His familiarity with the stadium and chemistry with the players around him proved pivotal in Malaysia’s push for an equaliser.
“I hope I can stay in Kuala Lumpur,” he said.
“I have received interest from many clubs but this place feels like home.”
Malaysia coach Peter Cklamovski, who has been working to instil a sharp, aggressive attacking philosophy, was pleased with Josue’s impact.
“Paulo delivered exactly what we spoke about,” said the Australian tactician.
“He came on and made an immediate impact.’’
