Fantastic: Jonathan Silva (left) going for a header during a match against Shanghai Shenhua. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: Winger Jonathan Silva of Argentina has paid close attention to Johor Darul Ta’zim’s (JDT) mission in the AFC Champions League Elite and it is showing in his performances.
On Wednesday, Silva produced a scintillating display to inspire the Southern Tigers by scoring twice in their 3-1 victory over Chinese powerhouse Shanghai Shenhua in the Asian league at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri.
“The Champions League is not a stage to be taken lightly. We have to keep working harder,” said Silva.
“We must try to get three points in every game and continue improving.”
The 31-year-old, who joined JDT in July from Cypriot club Pafos, was instrumental at both ends of the pitch – defending with composure and attacking with precision as he netted a brace to seal an important three points for the Malaysian champions.
“My work is to help the team – that is first and foremost the job of a professional player,” said Silva.
“We are doing well as a team in recent matches and the aim is to keep the momentum, keep going. I’m looking forward to the upcoming games.”
Silva, who has previously featured for top European and South American clubs including Getafe, Leganes, Estudiantes, Boca Juniors, and AS Roma, dug deep into his vast experience to strike the first goal in the 48th minute after a goalless first half.
A deflected cross from sensational winger Arif Aiman Hanapi found its way to Silva, who calmly slotted home from close range to ignite the home crowd.
Fifteen minutes later, Oscar Arribas made it 2-0 with a moment of individual brilliance – controlling midfielder Afiq Fazail’s cross with his chest, then left foot, spinning past a defender, and firing a low shot past goalkeeper Bao Yaxiong.
Shenhua clawed one back in the 71st minute when Brazilian forward Saulo Mineiro converted from the penalty spot, but any hopes of a comeback were dashed later on.
In the 87th minute, Silva struck again, meeting another pinpoint pass from Arif to secure all three points for JDT.
JDT coach Xisco Munoz praised his players’ discipline and adaptability after tweaking the team’s shape to counter Shenhua’s strengths.
“A massive win that’s important to us,” said Munoz.
“I’m very happy for the players because they suffered every day and today they showed their character, rhythm, and capacity.
Meanwhile, Shanghai coach Leonid Slutskiy admitted Silva’s early strike turned the tide of the match.
“It was important who scored first because after we conceded, we had to go on the attack, and that gave space for Johor’s very skilful players like Arif, who made the difference,” said Slutskiy.
With the win – JDT’s second consecutive ACL Elite victory after a 2-0 triumph over Chengdu Rongcheng – the Southern Tigers moved up to second in the East Zone standings with seven points from four matches, just two behind leaders Vissel Kobe.
In the ACL Elite, JDT will next travel to Australia to face Melbourne City on Nov 25, while Shanghai host Japanese side Vissel Kobe a day later.
