Kuala Lumpur: Sri Pahang FC are capable of pulling off a surprise upset over defending champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) in the 2024-2025 Malaysia Cup final scheduled to be held at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on April 12. Former Tok Gajah squad coach, Datuk Zainal Abidin Hassan, expressed confidence in the east coast team’s performance during this Malaysia Cup campaign, noting that he expects Fandi Ahmad’s team to play without pressure against the domestic football giant.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Zainal Abidin remarked on Pahang’s potential to offer strong competition, acknowledging JDT’s strength but emphasizing the unpredictability of football. He recalled past surprises, including the 2014 final when Sri Pahang defeated JDT in a penalty shootout. Zainal made these comments during a breaking of fast event with the media organized by the Malaysia Football League (MFL).

Sri Pahang’s journey to the final marks the end of a decade-long wait, achieved by defeating Sabah FC 3-2 on aggregate. I
n contrast, JDT advanced by easily overcoming Terengganu FC 6-1 on aggregate. The last time Sri Pahang lifted the Malaysia Cup was in 2014 under Zainal Abidin’s management.

The national football legend also addressed concerns about Sri Pahang’s potential absence from the Super League next season, urging players to focus on the upcoming final. He emphasized the importance of Sri Pahang’s presence in the Malaysian football scene, expressing hope that management issues would be resolved.

Recent remarks by the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, suggested that Sri Pahang and Kedah Darul Aman FC might not participate in the Super League next season due to financial management issues. Zainal Abidin stressed the need for the team to concentrate on the final, while expressing hope for their continued participation in Malaysian football.