ACLE: MUNOZ, KURODA PRAISE DISCIPLINE, URGE IMPROVEMENT AFTER GOALLESS DRAW

ISKANDAR PUTERI, Oct 1 (Bernama) -- Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) head coach Xisco Munoz praised his team’s disciplined display despite a 0-0 draw against Machida Zelvia in their AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) 2025/26 match at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium last night.

Munoz described the match as “an important day for us” and stressed the need to keep the momentum while improving attacking details to secure victory in future games.

He acknowledged that Machida’s physical style and pressing tactics made it a challenging encounter, but commended JDT’s defensive discipline and unity under pressure.

bootstrap slideshow

“Today (last night) was not easy. They have three strikers, two midfielders pressing…but the team gave a very good performance. Everybody gives their best, and we can congratulate the players for their level of performance and attitude,” he said.

On the penalty awarded to Machida in the 22nd minute—which was missed—Munoz emphasised the importance of composure, saying the team must maintain control of their emotions in such situations.

Munoz also addressed the absence of key players Hector Hevel, Joao Figueiredo and Jon Irazabal following FIFA suspensions, saying the team had to adapt accordingly while remaining focused.

Goalkeeper Ahmad Syihan Hazmi Mohamed, who was named Player of the Match, said the squad had given their best and would work to improve their game plan for upcoming fixtures.

“Alhamdulillah, we cannot be overconfident as there are still many games ahead. We need to continue improving to score goals. But for tonight’s game, I am very grateful,” he said.

Meanwhile, Machida Zelvia head coach Go Kuroda expressed satisfaction with his team’s defensive performance, noting it was the club’s first-ever international away match.

He said the main objective was to remain strong and play aggressively to stop JDT’s counter-attacks, adding that his players performed well despite lacking precision in passing and finishing.

On the missed penalty, Kuroda acknowledged its significance but emphasised the necessity to focus on scoring during open play and addressing areas for improvement in future matches.

-- BERNAMA