KUALA LUMPUR: Armed Forces coach Azizan Mustafa wants his girls to play without pressure in Friday's semi-final clash against defending champions Pahang in the TNB-Women's Razak Cup at KLHA Stadium in Pantai.
Forces earned a last four ticket after finishing second in Group B while Pahang hammered all their opponents with ease to top Group A.
"We arrived in the Razak Cup without several senior players. Most of them are unable to get leave while others are undergoing military training," said Azizan.
"We did not set any target and now that we are in the semi-finals, it is already a commendable effort from the players,” said Azizan.
“Pahang are, no doubt, the favourites and we are the underdogs. We will just do our best.
"There is no pressure on us so I want the players to go out and enjoy their game.”
“Hopefully, something good will come out by playing with no pressure."
Pahang, under coach by Benedict Arrais, have been impressive in the tournament.
They have seven current national players and a host of up-and-coming youngsters being groomed for next year's Malaysia Games.
"Our objective is to win the title once again but to get there we need to clear two hurdles – the first against Armed Forces in the semi-finals.
"This team have been playing well in almost all the matches but we can’t be overconfident and let our guard down,” said Arrais, a former national player who plans to quit after 22 years on the job.
He, however, cautioned his players not to take it easy against Forces.
"My main concern has always been how the youngsters perform. They are the backbone of Pahang’s future.
"I am looking towards a good and entertaining match tomorrow,” added Arrais.
Friday’s semi-finals will be a rematch of last year's final which Pahang won 4-0.
Fixtures
Friday
Semi-Finals
Pahang v Armed Forces (4pm)
Selangor v KL (6.30pm)