ISKANDAR PUTERI: Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) are not worried with the return of former Harimau Malaya coach Kim Pan Gon during the Asian Champions League Elite (ACLE) 2024/2025 clash against Ulsan HD FC, tomorrow. JDT head coach Hector Bidoglio said the team has done their homework to face their fourth game against Ulsan HD FC in front of the home crowd at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, here.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Bidoglio emphasized the importance of seizing the opportunity to collect three points in their own stadium despite the challenges. “We expect a tough match tomorrow night, however, we cannot waste the opportunity to collect three points and a victory while playing in our own stadium,” he noted during the pre-match press conference. He added that although Pan Gon is familiar with many of JDT’s players, it does not necessarily provide an advantage over the team, as JDT will be concentrating on their own strengths with all players in good condition.

Southern Tiger’s defender Jordi Amat expresse
d confidence in the team’s ability to face the South Korean club, urging supporters to provide full backing. “I believe Ulsan HD FC will play an aggressive match to get points in tomorrow’s game. With the title of South Korea’s strongest team, we cannot underestimate them,” Amat remarked.

On the opposite side, Ulsan HD FC head coach Pan Gon revealed his team’s readiness to compete in the ACLE following their recent success as K1 League champions. Pan Gon stated, “We are ready to face JDT and win our first game in this tournament. I hope the players will focus and do not make mistakes because JDT are quite tough when playing at home.”

JDT’s performance in the ACLE so far includes a 2-2 draw with Shanghai Port FC in their first game, a decisive 3-0 victory over Shanghai Shenhua FC in the second game, and a 1-3 defeat against Gwangju FC in the third game.