SERDANG: The Selangor football team square off against Pahang in the semi-finals at the Petaling Jaya Stadium today, with the hosts under pressure to deliver on home soil.
But Selangor coach I. Arulchelvan is keeping his players’ focus firmly on the present, insisting they can’t be thinking about gold before reaching the final.
“Being the host comes with huge expectations. The contingent, the supporters and everyone involved wants the gold medal. We understand that responsibility,” Arulchelvan said. “But as coach, I must make sure that expectations don’t become undue pressure for the players. The immediate target to is to get into the final.’’
Arulchelvan also pointed to the value of experience within his squad, singling out national team players Mohd Abu Khalil, Moses Raj and Haiqal Danish Mohd Haizon for their composure under pressure.
“Their national team experience definitely helps. They are used to playing under pressure and adapting quickly to different situations.’’
