On target: Terengganu’s Tchetche Kipre (left) scored the only goal against Selangor in the semi-finals. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: After a tumultuous first few months of the season, no one would have expected Selangor to reach the Malaysia Cup final.
Even when coach Tan Cheng Hoe took over in late September, many fans just wanted the team to improve their gameplay.
But the Red Giants’ considerable improvement under his tutelage has led them to the final of the prestigious tournament, and they have a chance of winning their 34th Malaysia Cup title.
The Klang Valley club qualified for the final by beating Terengganu 3-2 on aggregate in the two-legged semi-final.
They had a 3-1 lead from the first-leg but lost the second-leg 0-1 at the Sultan Mizan Stadium in Gong Badak on Monday, but a solid defensive performance despite the sending off of Yazan Al-Arab in the 88th minute, saw them maintain the aggregate lead.
Tchetche Kipre scored Terengganu’s goal in the 36th minute, but after that, the Turtles could not make their chances count.
The only blemish for Selangor is the fact that the defeat ended Cheng Hoe’s nine-game unbeaten run since he took over the club in September.
When asked about the performance against Terengganu, Cheng Hoe hailed his boys for being resolute and courageous.
“It was a fantastic performance from the boys, especially after Yazan was given a red card. They showed character and were mentally strong. When we were down 0-1, we were set on being defensively solid and keeping the aggregate on our side.
“I am proud of the boys because they stayed resolute, and even when injury time was long, they persevered.
“If the game went to extra time, we would have been under pressure because we were playing with 10 men. But what’s important, players can handle the situation and absorb the attacks. I hope they can continue this momentum for the final.”
Selangor will face Johor Darul Ta’zim in the final at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Saturday.
The Southern Tigers are undoubtedly the favourites to win as they have won the Super League, Charity Shield and FA Cup this year. Not only that, they are unbeaten the whole season in all competitions.
For Cheng Hoe, it will be his first meeting with JDT this season, and he knows what to expect from them.
“Overall. JDT have won many trophies and have been consistent. As a coach, I hope my boys are focused and confident when facing JDT.
“We know their strengths, especially with attackers like Bergson (Da Silva) and (Fernando) Forestieri and a solid defence too, but in a final, anything can happen.
“We will miss the presence of Yazan, but the referee’s decision is final. We have to take that as a motivation. Players, under me, have been more positives. Yes, improvements will be made, but I am pleased with the progress now.”
