TFC Optimistic Of Beating Svay Rieng FC In Shopee Cup Opener

He said that the entire team was fit except for winger Muhammad Akhyar Rashid who sustained an injury while playing in the Super League match against Sri Pahang FC on Friday.

"First match is always important and we expect tough game from the opponent. We saw they have a good team in the league. They played two games and win...so not an easy match.

"But we also have our target. We know what we need to do. We play at home and usually we play good here. I believe (in) my players," he said during a pre-match media conference.

Meanwhile, Svay Rieng FC head coach Jose Munoz expressed hope that his squad, lead by Hong Kong player Ryo Fujii, would be able to maintain their winning momentum even as he issued a reminder to them to be more focused and be mentally and physically stronger.

"Yes we started very good...two round of the league we go through with different rhythm that help us a lot to score goals and win. 

"But international stage will be higher opponent also will be different level than our normal league game. We know TFC is a good squad… we also have a good squad. Take advantages of the space and most important thing is we focus on our game," he said.

The four other teams in Group A are Dong A Thanh HOA FC, Sian United FC, PSM Makassar FC and BG Pathum United.

-- BERNAMA