Let’s get physical
Hariss warns JDT not to get outmuscled by Shandong
JOHOR BARU: We must be as tough as nails. Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) midfield enforcer Hariss Harun has warned his teammates Shandong Luneng FC of China will get physical in their AFC Champions League (ACL) clash at the Larkin Stadium tonight.
The Singapore international, however, said the Southern Tigers have shown they are no pushovers in the region’s premier competition.
“It’ll be a physical game because Shandong have many tall players in their squad and they’ll be playing direct football.
“They will use their height as an advantage against us but we’re playing at our home stadium and that’s an advantage for us,” he said in the pre-match press conference yesterday.
Shandong have an impressive line-up, which includes former Southampton and Italy striker Graziano Pelle and former Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini.
The Chinese Super League side had beaten JDT 2-1 in their first match in China on April 9 through goals from Pelle and Fellaini.
Hariss added that playing in the AFC Champions League has certainly helped JDT improve.
“This is the highest stage in Asian football and the boys played really well in our previous three ACL matches.
“We created chances and scored goals away and at home against Asia’s biggest football clubs,” he added.
Head coach Benjamin Mora said that JDT’s packed schedule in April was taking a toll on the players.
“Our centreback Mauricio has some niggling injuries after the Super League clash against PKNS recently but it’s not severe.
“We’re still assessing Mauricio and will make a decision that’s best for the team and him,” he said.
Meanwhile, Shandong manager Li Xiaopeng said he has warned his players not to take JDT lightly and focus on getting the three points.
“JDT have quality players especially in their attack and this is an important game for us if we want to progress to the next round,” he said.