PETALING JAYA: Ager Aketxe played a key role as Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) took a commanding step towards the Malaysia Cup final, but the Spaniard insists the job is far from done.
The midfielder struck twice, including a superb free-kick, in JDT’s dominant 4-0 semi-final, first-leg win over Kuala Lumpur last week.
Despite the convincing scoreline, Aketxe stressed the importance of staying focused ahead of the return leg.
“It’s always nice to score and help the team, but this is only the first leg,” said the former Athletic Bilbao, Real Zaragoza, and UD Almeria player.
“There is still another game to play, so we have to stay focused and prepare well to finish the job.”
On his free-kick, Aketxe credited hard work on the training ground.
“I practise a lot in training. The more you work on it, the more confident you become. I’m happy it worked out in the match.”
Teammate Oscar Arribas echoed that sentiment, warning that the tie is not over despite the advantage.
“It wasn’t an easy game. We are closer to the final, but we have to stay focused for the second leg,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kuala Lumpur defender Adam Nor Azlin remains hopeful of a comeback in the return leg at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium tomorrow.
“There are still 90 minutes to play. We will keep fighting and try to turn things around,” he said.
