ISKANDAR PUTERI, May 5 (Bernama) -- Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) and Thailand’s Buriram United FC are ready to battle in the first leg of the ASEAN Club Championship semi-final tomorrow at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium.
The match is expected to draw strong attention from fans across the region, with both teams aiming to take an early advantage before the return leg on May 13 at the Buriram Stadium.
JDT head coach Xisco Munoz said his players are determined to rise to the occasion, stressing the importance of intensity and focus in all aspects of the game and would try to give their best from the first minute with high intensity, adding that the team must give their maximum.
“We are ready to give our best, with high intensity and full focus in every facet of the game. We are in a good moment and doing our best,” he said at a pre-match press conference here today.
However, Xisco kept his starting eleven under wraps for tomorrow’s match.
“Everybody is ready for the semi-final. I cannot reveal the names, but we will select the best players,” he said.
He added that the team is pleased to have reached the semi-final and to once again be among the leading sides in Southeast Asian football, expressing both excitement and pride over the achievement.
Meanwhile, Buriram United FC head coach Mark Jackson said his players are fully prepared, focused and excited for tomorrow’s match.
He added that playing away from home would not affect the team, and instead would give them an opportunity to better plan their strategy.
“It is a two-legged game, so nothing will be decided tomorrow. We will play away first and are fully focused on executing our game plan. We respect JDT and have made thorough preparations,” he added, saying his side will be aiming for a strong result.
JDT advanced to the semi-final stage after finishing as Group B runners-up with 11 points.
Meanwhile, Buriram United FC topped Group A with 9 points, setting up a highly competitive semi-final clash between both sides.
-- BERNAMA
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