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PETALING JAYA: Kelantan may be trailing on aggregate, but wingback Simen Lyngbo (pic) is giving the Real Warriors hope ahead of today’s Malaysia Cup last 16 second-leg clash against Selangor at the Petaling Jaya Stadium.
Although Kelantan lost 1-2 in the first leg in Kota Baru, Filipino Simen’s calm display, which was capped by the opening goal, has boosted belief that they can challenge the Red Giants on their own ground.
It was the only goal before the Red Giants responded strongly with captain and winger Faisal Halim scoring in the 61st and 92nd minutes to give his side a slender advantage heading into the return-leg.
The 27-year-old Simen, who joined Kelantan in July from Thai club Nongbua Pitchaya, is fired up to overturn the deficit.
“Selangor have strong options in central areas but these kind of matches is the one you want to play.
“They are favourites but we’re focused on what we can control and executing our game plan when the moments come.”
Lyngbo said his early months with Kelantan have been encouraging, even as the team continue to work on consistency.
“It’s been a positive experience so far. We have a good group of teammates and clear quality in the squad,” he said.
“There are still areas we need to improve collectively, but if everyone pulls in the same direction, we can build something positive.”
With fixtures coming in quick succession, Kelantan have focused on recovery and tactical fine-tuning.
“Preparations have been good. With the short time between games, recovery and tactical details have been key,” he said.
Meanwhile, Selangor captain Faisal admitted his side were surprised by Kelantan’s early breakthrough but credited their mentality for the comeback.
“We didn’t expect Kelantan to score. We made a silly mistake, but coach Kim Pan-gon told us to keep pushing, and that’s why we won,” said the 28-year-old.
Faisal also praised Kelantan’s progress while highlighting Selangor’s steady improvement.
“Kelantan are getting better, and Selangor are also improving game by game. We managed the match well, and now we have the second leg at home. Whoever the coach selects, everyone must give their best.”
