PETALING JAYA: Shanghai Shenhua coach Leonid Slutsky has described Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) as “almost Spanish” opponents.
The Chinese Super League side, currently second in their domestic competition, face Malaysia Super League champions JDT in an AFC Champions League (ACL) Elite clash at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri today.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference yesterday, the Russian tactician expressed admiration for JDT’s style and identity, calling them one of the most captivating sides in Asia.
“They have a clear identity and style. Japanese and Korean clubs play with a high level of intensity, but JDT are a different type of team – almost like a Spanish side in the Champions League,” said Slutsky.
“It’s exciting and interesting to play against opponents like these. JDT are a good side with many players who have European experience. They play with a lot of passes and possession – very offensive.
“They attack well and make many combinations, but we’ll have our chances through counter-attacks.
“JDT are strong offensively but have some weaknesses in defence.”
JDT’s Spanish influence is evident, with 12 Spanish-born players in the squad and head coach Xisco Munoz also hailing from Spain.
Shanghai currently sit fifth in their ACL Elite group with four points, while JDT are seventh, separated only by goal difference.
In last season’s ACL, Shanghai lost 0–3 to JDT at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, but Slutsky believes his team are much better prepared this time.
“Last season, we struggled with recovery and long travel distances. Now, we’ve had better preparation and recovery time,” he said.
“We have a more competitive squad this year, and it should be an equal game. We’re not talking about revenge - this is a different year.
“We’ve made several changes, bringing in two new foreign strikers, Brazilian Saulo Mineiro and Equatorial Guinea forward Luis Asue as well as midfielder Nico Yennaris from Beijing. Last year, Joao Teixeira did not play, but now we have a stronger squad.”
Meanwhile, JDT rightback Raul Parra is relishing the opportunity to face Shanghai’s attack.
“When we defend as a team, it’s difficult for opponents to score. We defend and attack together,” said the Spaniard.
“Our goal is to get three important points. We have many quality players, and everyone pushes each other to perform.”
