PETALING JAYA: Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) coach Xisco Munoz is well aware that Brunei have stepped up their game and will be a tough challenge when they clash in the FA Cup semi-final first-leg tie tomorrow.
The Wasps will host the Southern Tigers at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, and Munoz sees their opponents as a well-balanced team who can make their lives difficult through tight defending and quick counter-attacks.
“We know that we will be facing a difficult team, especially when we’re playing away from home,” said Munoz.
“Brunei are a well-balanced team. They can come in and stay in a low block and are strong in this aspect.
“They can launch effective counter-attacks and force us to find ways to break through their defensive line.”
Brunei recently maintained their strong form after coming from behind to beat Kuching City 3-2 in the Super League at home on Sunday.
Munoz addressed the possibility of making several changes to his line-up for the cup match, knowing even the slightest lapse in concentration from his players could prove costly for the defending champions.
“It’s not going to be easy to secure a positive result away from home, and every player must give their full commitment and remain focused throughout the match.
“I will try to rotate the squad slightly for the match, but I need to select the best line-up because anything can happen.’’
After the first leg in Brunei, JDT will host the second leg tie at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium on Nov 8.
Before that, JDT will play two AFC Champions League Elite matches where they host Thai side Port FC on Oct 27, before heading to South Korea to face Jeonbuk Hyundai on Nov 3.
