DARUL Ta’zim coach Bojan Hodak insists that the hectic schedule will not affect his team’s aspirations of earning a good result against a confident Felda United in the semi-final first leg of the Malaysia Cup at Selayang Stadium today.
The match comes four days after Darul Ta’zim defeated Terengganu 3-1 in the quarter-final second leg at Larkin Stadium after the 0-0 draw in Kuala Terengganu.
As for Felda, the Premier League champions go into the game with fresh legs as they have not played since the quarter-final win over Selangor on Oct 10.
Hodak admitted that some players are carrying minor injuries and that midfielder Safiq Rahim and Brazilian defender Marcos Antonio are doubtful for the match,
“At this stage, rest is more important than training. I gave the players a break today as they need to recover,” said Hodak in Johor Baru yesterday.
“Safiq and Antonio were instrumental in the previous games but I cannot risk them. I will only play them if they get the green light from the trainer.
“However, I have able replacements. I may reunite Aidil Zafuan Radzak with Fadhli Shas in the centre-back position if Antonio is unavailable.”
Bojan said his team must play better today or risk being embarrassed by Felda.
“We were playing our best football in the group stage but the international break affected our momentum in the quarter-finals.
“But I believe my players will do enough to get the desired result tomorrow. I have also reminded them that Felda will not be a walk-in-the-park.”
Hodak, 43, said his team must take a patient approach today.
“Felda have experienced players and a good coach in Irfan Bakti. Furthermore, veterans Indra Putra Mahayuddin and Shukor Adan are playing their best football.
“We also need to be careful of Felda’s attacking options in Edward Junior Wilson, Ndumba Makeche and Zah Rahan Krangar.”
But the coach believes his defence will do a good job with or without Antonio.
“Our back-line has conceded only two goals in the last 10 matches, so I expect them to deny our opponents opportunities.
“I think Felda have more things to worry about as we are strong in every department,” Hodak added.
Irfan confirmed that Indra will start today, replacing the suspended Raimi Nor.
“We had a good rest but it does not mean we will hold the advantage. Darul Ta’zim are experienced and have reliable options on the bench.
“Our aim is to deny the biggest club in the M-League from reaching the final. I don’t see them any different than the other Super League teams that we beat this season,” Irfan added.