PETALING JAYA: Despite their imposing status as three-time defending champions, Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) are facing an injury crisis ahead of their FA Cup final clash against Sabah tonight.
Recently, goal machine Bergson Da Silva was reported to have suffered an injury, joining a growing list of players already sidelined for the same reason, including Arif Aiman Hanapi, Romel Morales, and Juan Muniz.
Earlier, JDT had also lost Hector Hevel, Joao Figueiredo, and Jon Irazabal, who are currently suspended by FIFA.
JDT head coach Xisco Munoz remained confident in the players available to step up and fill the gaps left by their teammates, as the Southern Tigers aimed to defend their FA Cup title for a fourth consecutive year.
“We are very happy to be here because this match is important for our club.Tomorrow (today) we have an important game, and we know we are in a good moment right now. It’s true we are facing some difficulties with injuries to key players,” said Munoz.
“It’s tough because normally these players would be available for final. Of course, having them would make the team stronger.
“But the most important thing is to focus on the players we do have and give them the chance to perform.
“We are in a positive mood, and we want to show our style, the JDT style and give our best on the pitch,” said Munoz during a pre match press conference at Bukit Jalil yesterday.
JDT are also prepared in case Sabah push the match beyond 90 minutes, or even to a penalty shootout.
Munoz revealed that he and his coaching staff had done their homework by studying Sabah’s penalty tactics, particularly from their FA Cup semi-final against Selangor, which Sabah won 5-4 after a 5-5 aggregate draw.
“All games are different, and every situation is different. The pressure is never the same and a semi-final is not the same as a final. We have a slight advantage because we know how they usually take their penalties.
“They may change their order or try to create confusion, but we have information on which players take them and which way they usually shoot. This gives us a little more insight into their approach,” added Munoz.
