The head coach of Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) caused quite a surprise with his team selection for the match against Persija Jakarta, and unfortunately, the outcome was not as anticipated. The decision to adhere to only one player from the previous match resulted in early struggles for JDT, as they found themselves trailing by three goals within the first 20 minutes.
Stefano Cugurra Teco, commonly known as Longhi, openly admitted that his choice to implement a back five formation backfired, leading to discomfort and uncertainty among the players. This subsequently resulted in a challenging first half, particularly for Fazly Mazlan. Longhi also disclosed that the team had made several changes in order to prioritize upcoming crucial fixtures and to allow key players some much-needed rest.
Longhi was candid about the defensive mistakes made and acknowledged the impressive performance of Persija Jakarta. He emphasized the team’s renowned reputation for playing flowing football and stressed that the current style of play is not typical of their usual approach. Despite the setbacks, the coach remains optimistic and is fully focused on achieving victory in the next game.
Aidil Zafuan, one of the players who grappled with the unfamiliar formation, emphasized the difficulties of playing in front of a large and energetic crowd. He also highlighted the impact of Persija Jakarta’s key player, Riko Simanjuntak, who posed significant problems for the JDT defense.
During the post-match press conference, Longhi elucidated the team’s rationale behind the alterations and provided insight into their priorities for the current season. JDT’s aim is to secure a place in the Asian Champions League next year, which has influenced their tactical approach to the ongoing matches. The coach underscored the necessity for adjustments due to the demanding schedule and the importance of managing player fatigue.
Looking ahead, JDT will confront Song Lam Nghe An in their final group match, with their qualification fate hanging in the balance. To secure a position in the knockout stage, they must deliver a commendable result and also depend on outcomes from other groups. Despite the challenges, the team remains resolute in giving their best and leveraging their home advantage to the fullest.
Ultimately, Longhi expressed remorse for the team’s performance and assured fans that they are dedicated to concluding the remaining matches on a strong note. With their sights set on multiple objectives, JDT remains steadfast in overcoming their recent setback and achieving success in the upcoming fixtures.
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