Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) is poised to make a highly-anticipated return to AFC Cup action this upcoming Wednesday, as they commence their campaign in Group H against Persija Jakarta, Song Lam Nghe An, and Tampines Rovers. It is evident that each match will be fiercely contested, with JDT aiming to make a significant impression.
The team’s participation in the AFC Cup holds particular significance, given that it may mark their final appearance until 2021. This is attributed to Malaysia securing an automatic spot in the AFC Champions League, along with JDT’s consistent status as favorites to clinch the Malaysian Super League title, ensuring eligibility for entry into the ultimate cup competition in Asia.
In the 2017 AFC Cup, JDT encountered a devastating defeat in the zonal semi-final, succumbing to Ceres-Negros FC on away goals following a thrilling second leg in the Philippines. Despite this setback, there are high expectations for the team to, at a minimum, replicate or surpass their previous performance in the competition.
A deeper examination of the three teams that JDT will face in the group stage is necessary.
Persija Jakarta
– Method of qualification: 4th place in Liga 1 Indonesia
– Head coach: Stefano Cugurra (Brazil)
– Notable players: Rizky Lestaluhu, Bambang Pamungkas, Marco Simic
– Current form: Won 5 of their last 6 matches in the 2018 President’s Cup
– Fun Fact: Simic has scored 9 goals in the President’s Cup
– Best AFC Cup record: Making their inaugural appearance in the competition
Song Lam Nghe An
– Method of qualification: 2017 Vietnamese Cup winners
– Head coach: Nguyen Duc Thang
– Notable players: Que Ngoc Hai, Danko Kovacevic, Tran Nguyen Manh
– Current form: Secured a 2-0 victory in their opening AFC Cup match against Tampines Rovers
– Fun Fact: SLNA features 2 players who played in the final of the AFC U23 Championship against Tampines
– Best AFC Cup record: Reached the Round of 16 in 2011
Tampines Rovers
– Method of qualification: 2017 S-League runners-up
– Head coach: Juergen Raab (Germany)
– Notable players: Fahrudin Mustafic, Daniel Bennett, Khairul Amri
– Current form: Suffered a 2-0 defeat in their opening AFC Cup match against Song Lam Nghe An
– Fun Fact: Tampines also participated in the Champions League qualification round but were eliminated by Bali United
– Best AFC Cup record: Advanced to the Quarterfinals from 2005 to 2007
In light of these formidable opponents, JDT will undoubtedly encounter formidable challenges as they pursue AFC Cup glory. The journey ahead is anticipated to be one filled with excitement and heightened stakes, with fans expecting thrilling matches in the upcoming days. JDT is committed to delivering outstanding performances and surmounting each obstacle that comes their way, as they aspire to make a significant impact on this esteemed competition.
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