TFC II facing daunting task to retain Challenge Cup title

KUALA TERENGGANU, Sept 20 -- The Challenge Cup defending champion, Terengganu FC ll (TFC ll) will face a tough challenge to retain the title after losing 1-2 to Johor Darul Ta'zim ll (JDT ll) in the first leg of the Challenge Cup semi-finals at Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium, tonight.

The first 30 minutes went bland as there was no dangerous attempt made by both teams who were too careful and testing the opponent’s defence line.

When JDT ll Nicolas Fernandez's header in the 35th minute almost thrilled the host but it was saved by the goalkeeper, Mohd Sharmiza Yusof and after being stunned by the opponent's attack, TFC ll led by senior player, Mohd Hasbullah Awang put on a strong counterattack and the match went scoreless before the breather.

The second half of the match became more interesting when both teams fought hard to score their first goal but luck was on TFC II side when Bruno Suzuki netted the ball in the 60th minute from outside the penalty box and five minutes later JDT II's Ervin Bodin levelled the score.

The visiting team sealed the match eight minutes before the final whistle through its midfielder, S. Kumaahran.

TFC ll will be heading to the Pasir Gudang Municipal Stadium on Sept 27 for the second leg of the semi-final.

-- BERNAMA