KUALA LUMPUR: KL City coach Bojan Hodak believes his forward, Haqimi Azim Rosli, has a bright future ahead after scoring his first senior goal for the club in the 2-0 win over Sri Pahang in Sunday's Super League match at KLFA Stadium in Cheras.
Hodak, a former national Under-19 coach, said it was important for young footballers to score as it would boost their confidence.
"It was challenging for both teams to play on a muddy pitch after heavy rain. Both relied on long balls to create chances," said Hodak.
"I am glad that we won and happy for Haqimi, who scored his first goal in only his second senior game. He could have scored two more in the match.
"I hope the goal will raise his confidence and motivate him to develop his game."
Haqimi, 19, scored KL's first goal in the 31st minute. Forward Zhafri Yahya doubled their lead in the 72nd minute.
Pahang coach Dollah Salleh admitted that his team lacked the experience and maturity to match an AFC Cup-level team like KL.
"We could not adapt to the pitch condition. KL knew how to play and showed their class. Hodak's side are experienced and are doing well in the AFC Cup.
"They prevented us from doing anything during the match," said Dollah.
The City Boys will face Uzbekistan's Sogdiana Jizzakh on Oct 5 in an AFC Cup inter-zonal match, with the winner taking on Oman's Al Saeb or Bahrain's Al Riffa in the final.