PETALING JAYA: Jeddah in Saudi Arabia appears to be a nice destination to relax, given its blend of rich history and modern seaside luxury.
But the word holiday won’t be a part of Johor Darul Ta’zim’s (JDT) vocabulary as they prepare to face holders Al-Ahli in the AFC Champions League (ACL) Elite quarter-finals at the King Abdullah Stadium today.
The Southern Tigers’ midfielder Natxo Insa is in a strictly business mood and has reminded his teammates not to be distracted from their goal of plotting an upset.
Al-Ahli head into the clash as favourites, boasting an impressive line-up that includes English striker Ivan Toney, Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez, Brazilian defender Roger Ibanez, Turkish centreback Merih Demiral, Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy and Ivorian midfielder Frank Kessie.
Despite the formidable opposition, the 39-year-old Insa believes JDT have what it takes to compete with Asia’s elite.
“Reaching this stage is the result of hard work and strong performances in the group stage,” said Insa, who has been with the club since 2017.
“It’s a big challenge as we are facing one of the best teams, with top-quality players. But we believe in ourselves.
“We have nothing to lose. We are not here on holiday; we are here to compete and give everything we have. Then we will see what happens.
“We are a relatively young club, but we continue to grow every year, and this shows where we are now.”
Insa added that unity within the squad has been key to their progress this season.
“From the start of the season, the objectives were clear across the organisation - from management to players and staff.
“Inside the dressing room, we have managed both the good and difficult moments together. We went through tough periods, but stayed united and relied on strong leadership.
“There are high expectations, and it’s not easy to keep improving every season. But our mentality drives us.
“We don’t play only for ourselves - we are a family. Other teams may have more history, bigger budgets or more famous players, but we have something special - belief in each other.”
Meanwhile, coach Xisco Munoz stressed the importance of focus and discipline against a stronger opponent in the knockout stage.
“We are in a good moment, with strong results and many goals scored, but this is a different competition,” he said.
“At this stage, you face stronger opponents. Focus and concentration will be crucial.’’
JDT advanced to the quarter-finals after finishing sixth in the league stage and edging Japan’s Sanfrecce Hiroshima 3-2 in the round of 16.
If JDT beat Al-Ahli, they will face either Qatari club Al-Saad or Japanese side Vissel Kobe in the semi-finals on April 20.
