KUALA LUMPUR – “I don’t know. I have nothing to say.”
That was the dismissive response from Johor Darul Ta’zim’s (JDT) assistant coach Jose Lopez when asked by journalists about his team’s preparation for the FA Cup final during a press conference today.
Despite several questions, including those about the Southern Tigers’ readiness and injury updates, Lopez shut down the conversation with his terse remarks.
His refusal to engage has sparked speculation about whether the defending champions are trying to keep their cards close to their chest or simply underestimating their opponents.
Both Lopez and defender Junior Eldstal gave media just under two minutes at the pre-match press conference, raising eyebrows about their confidence – or arrogance.
Eldstal’s equally brief comment “Very good” was followed by a series of “no comment” responses, delivered with what some described as a cold indifference.
Meanwhile, Selangor, last crowned champions 15 years ago, openly admitted to being the underdogs tomorrow.
But head coach Nidzam Jamil did not mince words about his team’s determination to flip the script against JDT.
“If we compare both teams, JDT has enjoyed greater success over the past decade, while Selangor is chasing a dream,” said Jamil, before throwing down the gauntlet.
“We remain positive and will approach the final with smiles and optimism.
“When two teams play for 90 minutes, there’s a 50-50 chance. We’re also ambitious, as we’re just one match away from winning the title.
“I just want the players to seize their opportunities.”
Jamil did not rule out the possibility of fielding winger Faisal Halim, who returned earlier this month, when Selangor played Kelantan Darul Naim in the Super League, after recovering from a malicious acid attack in May. – August 23, 2024
