Football

Kedah and Perak fight for AFC ticket

WITH Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) already confirmed as Super League champions, the focus is now on the battle for the runners-up position.

The team who finish second behind JDT will qualify for next season's AFC Cup.

Kedah and Perak are the teams in contention for the runners-up spot.

The Red Eagles are second with 19 points, followed by the Bos Gaurus (18 points).

Kedah need a draw against Perak in Ipoh today to finish runners-up while the latter must win to take second spot.

The hosts will be without captain Shahrul Saad today, but Brazilian striker Guilherme de Paula is expected to return for the match.

"I am not thinking about Shahrul's absence ahead of this match. Football is a team sport, and we will have to play well collectively for a good result," said Perak coach Mehmet Durakovic.

Shahrel Fikri Fauzi, the league's top scorer with 10 goals, will lead Perak's attack against Kedah today.

Kedah defender Irfan Zakaria is expected to be handed the job to mark Shahrel, who netted five goals in his last two matches, in Ipoh.

"Shahrel is in his best form, and it will not be easy to keep him at bay. He was superb in his last two matches. My job is to deny him scoring opportunities.

"We are playing for a win, although a draw will be enough to secure the second spot. Our goal is to represent Malaysia in the AFC Cup next season," said Irfan.

In their last four meetings, Kedah won twice while the other two matches ended in draws.

Terengganu, meanwhile, will have a chance to win big against a depleted Pahang at home today.

Pahang coach Dollah Salleh said the Elephants will be without Dickson Nwakaeme, Ivan Carlos, Herold Goulon and R. Dinesh due to various reasons.

"I will have to depend on youngsters to do the job. I hope the team can perform well and achieve something tomorrow (today)," said Dollah.

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