ISKANDAR PUTERI, 2024, JUNE 22 – Despite falling to a 3-0 defeat against reigning champions Johor Darul Ta’zim FC (JDT), Sri Pahang FC head coach Fandi Ahmad expressed pride in his team’s performance, highlighting their determination and improved cohesion in the Malaysia Super League encounter at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium.
Facing a formidable JDT side on their home turf, Sri Pahang struggled to contain the Southern Tigers’ attacking threats, particularly from Brazilian striker Heberty Fernandes, who scored a hattrick to secure victory for the hosts.
Still, Fandi found positives to take away from the match.
“Overall, I believe we played well. The players gave 100 per cent, which is crucial to me,” he said during the post-match press conference. “The combination of Mykola Ahapov and Kpah Sherman didn’t quite click, even though everyone put in the effort. But I must admit that JDT’s players are a cut above us – and that’s something we couldn’t avoid.”
Fandi acknowledged several errors in midfield that hampered Sri Pahang’s ability to threaten JDT’s goal, adding that more composure and tactical awareness are needed moving forward.
“We didn’t close down the space well enough. I warned them about Heberty’s left foot – he’s dangerous, but we just shadowed him instead of challenging him properly,” he explained.
The defeat leaves Sri Pahang in sixth place, while JDT continue their dominant run at the top of the Super League standings.
JDT head coach Hector Bidoglio was pleased with the team’s professionalism and control of the match, despite the absence of two key forwards, Fernando Forestieri and Bergson da Silva.
“We maintained our tempo and strategy well. I’m very pleased and satisfied with the team’s performance,” Bidoglio said.
The Argentine coach also turned his attention to JDT’s next assignment – an FA Cup clash against Malaysia University FT, a side from the A1 Semi-Pro League, scheduled for 28 June at Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium.
“It is a crucial game for us, and we need to approach it with seriousness and professionalism. We will display our best tactics and potential against them,” he said.
