PETALING JAYA: Kuala Lumpur coach Risto Vidakovic has called on his players to raise their game in the next two Super League fixtures before the international break.
The City Boys are looking to shake off the disappointment of a 1-3 defeat to Kelantan in the FA Cup round of 16 first leg at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium on Monday.
Kuala Lumpur’s response will be tested immediately when they take on Penang at the City Stadium in Georgetown today, followed by a clash against Police on Wednesday. Vidakovic admitted that his side’s first-half display in Kota Baru was their poorest of the season, but stressed that the setback must serve as a wake-up call.
“The first half against Kelantan was the worst we’ve played this season. But we have to learn from it and make sure we bounce back,” said Vidakovic.
“The fixtures are packed this month, so our focus has to be on recovery and video analysis to ensure the boys improve quickly.”
The coach also singled out winger Safawi Rasid, urging the national star to rediscover his sharpness after an underwhelming outing against Kelantan.
“From the start, his intensity was lower than usual. Maybe it’s due to too many games in a row, but that’s not an excuse. He has to step up and prove he’s a key player.
“Missing the last-minute penalty was tough, but it also showed he’s willing to shoulder responsibility. We all know what Safawi is capable of, and I believe he will come back stronger.”
KL’s preparations were further disrupted when influential Argentine winger Manuel Hidalgo was recalled by parent club Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT).
The 26-year-old had been a bright spark in their opening two league matches, contributing a goal and an assist, and was seen as the focal point of their attack.
