Turtles still optimistic despite slim loss to JDT in first leg
PETALING JAYA: Terengganu interim coach Nafuzi Zain has refused to throw in the towel after his side lost 1-0 to Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) in the first leg of the Malaysia Cup quarter-final.
Brazilian striker Diogo Santo scored the winner in the 22nd minute at the Sultan Ismail Stadium on Saturday to hold the advantage ahead of the return leg at the Larkin Stadium on Sept 28.
The Turtles need to score two away goals to have a chance of advancing into the semi-finals.
JDT have only lost once at home since April 14, 2012. They were stunned by Petaling Jaya City 1-0 in a Super League match on July 17 this season.
Nafuzi admitted that although it will be a tough task, his men will not give up.
“We’re still optimistic despite losing at home.
“I think the game is still open and we have to believe that we can get a result.
“I don’t have issues with the team’s performance because we went up against a very strong opponent.
“They are the Super League champions and their players’ individual quality made the difference.
“We made some mistakes and ended up on the losing side.”
JDT coach Benjamin Mora is happy despite the narrow win.
“I’m very satisfied with the effort of our players. Defensively we did very well because we didn’t let Terengganu do what they can do in their home,” said the Mexican.
“It’s a huge challenge to play here, the game was very intense. As a team, we did a good job but the tie is not over yet.
“This is the knockout stage and we need to be on our toes. We can’t give them the space to move freely in Larkin.”