PETALING JAYA: Sabah’s Brazilian centreback Gabriel Peres is used to being put on the spot, having to contain many of the Super League’s top strikers.
And the spotlight could end up being his on Sunday, as the Rhinos square off against Penang in the second leg of the Challenge Cup final at the Likas Stadium.
With the tie finely poised at 1-1 following the first leg in Georgetown two weeks ago, the 29-year-old Peres is bracing himself for a high-pressure encounter - one that could lead to a shootout.
A confident Peres said he will be the first to step up for the challenge, having converted a last-minute penalty in the first leg for the equaliser.
“I’ve been working on penalties every day. My teammates encouraged me to take it during matches and I’m happy I converted one in the first leg of the final,” said Peres, who has featured in three Challenge Cup matches this season, scoring twice, while making 11 appearances across all competitions.
“It wasn’t easy, as it happened at the last minute. I watched the goalkeeper closely, saw where he moved before placing my shot.
“Now. we have to be stronger and more focused in the second leg at home if we are to lift the cup.’’
Sabah are seeking their first trophy since 1995, when they won the FA Cup after beating Pahang 3-1 in the final.
Although Peres has struggled for consistent game time due to knee issues, he remains a key figure and a constant threat from set-pieces.
And it wouldn’t be a surprise if he turns out to be the match winner on Sunday. But before that, Peres is hoping for a strong turnout at Likas to give Sabah the extra push.
“I’m hoping for a full stadium as it will motivate us even more. I want to enjoy every second of this final and create history for myself too, as this could be my first trophy in Malaysia.”
Meanwhile, Penang wingback Adib Abd Raop is looking to bounce back in the final after being sent off in their last Super League game against Immigration on April 11 which ended 0-0.
He has apologised to the club for the incident, when he reacted to a provocation by Eduardo Sosa by kicking the Venezuelan.
“This incident has been an important lesson for me, and I promise that it will not happen again,’’ said Adib.
‘’Together with my teammates, I will give my full commitment to the Challenge Cup final against Sabah.’’
