Local players to spearhead JDT attack
Darul Ta’zim (JDT) caretaker coach Raul Longhi expects a tough encounter in today’s AFC Cup Group H match against Singapore’s Tampines Rovers at Larkin Stadium.
Longhi, who took over from coach Ulisses Morais last month, has analysed Tampines’ strengths and weaknesses and he knows that they have the pedigree to prevent his side from winning at home.
Vietnam’s Song Lam Ngh An lead the group with seven points, three more than JDT and Indonesia’s Persija Jakarta, who are second and third, followed by Tampines on one point.
“We are playing at home, so I expect my team to win.
“We respect Tampines as they are Singapore’s best team, and they have a decent style of play.
“I expect my players to give their 100 per cent and also to follow instructions,” he said.
JDT will depend on locals in attack as Longhi confirmed that Argentine Luciano Figueroa will not be fielded today as the forward has not recovered from injury.
Brazilian defender Marcos Antonio is also doubtful.
“We will assess Antonio tomorrow and see whether he will be fit to play.
“We cannot afford to drop points anymore, so I hope my players will do their best in the match.
Tampines coach Jurgen Raab said his players are motivated as they had held JDT to a draw in the first round at Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore on March 6.
“JDT are a good team. They managed to hold us with their fringe players in the first round.
“I believe they will field their best players tomorrow, but we will be ready for them,” he said.