PETALING JAYA: Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) will use the lessons learned from their 2-1 loss to Buriram in the AFC Champions League (ACL) Elite on Sept 16 to ensure a good result against Bangkok United in their Asean Club Championship Shopee Cup match at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium today.
JDT coach Xisco Munoz reminded his players of the lapses in concentration which cost them dearly in the away game against Buriram and they can’t afford to make such mistakes again in their home match.
“Against Buriram, we controlled most parts of the game but in six or seven minutes, we conceded. These small details can make or break you.
“We need to be defensively solid and avoid leaving gaps for the opponents. If we control the small things, we move one step forward,” said Munoz.
Munoz stressed that defensive discipline and consistency will be key against Bangkok United as the Southern Tigers seek to maintain their momentum in the regional competition after beating Lions City Sailors 3-1 in their first game on Aug 21.
.The former Watford coach also emphasised that his side need to be mindful of Bangkok’s mobile attackers led by Dutch winger Ilias Alhaft, who is assisted by pacy attackers like Omani Muhsen Al-Ghassani and Japanese Seia Kunori.
“Bangkok are a good side with individuals who can change a game,” said Munoz.
“We have to make sure we are solid. The focus is on staying compact, keeping a clean sheet and building on that.”
Munoz also underlined the importance of home advantage and fan support.
“We have one step forward because we are home. We want to connect with the fans and get extra power from them. Our personality on the field is to dominate, to control the tempo, and to stop their playmakers from dictating.”
JDT may opt for some rotation, with Munoz confirming that Spanish winger Teto Martín is back in training, while midfielder Hector Hevel’s involvement will be assessed.
Midfielder Nathaniel Shio Hong Wan, recently back from a long injury layoff, is eager to contribute.
“We know how important this tournament is. Winning games - that is what we do in JDT,” said the 25-year-old.
“I was out for a long time, so I am thankful to the boss and coaches for giving me minutes. I’ll do my best to show what I can do.”
Nathaniel highlighted the battle in midfield as a decisive factor.
“Games are won and lost in midfield. We’ve been working on the three-man midfield structure with the coach. With players like Hector and Jambu (Afiq Fazail), competition is tough, but whoever plays will deliver what the coach wants.”
