PETALING JAYA: The roar will be louder.
That is the promise from Johor Darul Ta’zim’s (JDT) captain Jordi Amat as the Southern Tigers are gunning for revenge against a more illustrious club Kawasaki Frontale in their opening Group I game of the AFC Champions League at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri today.
JDT lost 0-5 to the Japanese club at last year’s edition.
“We have learnt from that humbling defeat. We are a better team than last year. I trust my teammates and the idea we have. We have been showing it in every local game,” said Jordi.
“It will be tougher test at this stage but we are ready for the fight.
“This club have grown rapidly because we are never satisfied. We try to show improvement in every game, and always try to play better than before.
“We have shown that eagerness in the local league. Except for one draw, we have won 20 games in a row in the Super League, which is tough to do.
“We know Kawasaki are tough opponents but we have our plans to counter them.
“Our motivation and focus are at 200 per cent. I’m sure it will be a good game,” added the Indonesian international.
JDT will be boosted by the return of Argentinian playmaker Fernando Forestieri and Brazilian striker Diogo Santo, who have resumed full training after recovering from knee injuries.
Meanwhile, both team coaches Toru Oniki and Esteban Solari are playing mind games.
Oniki said scoring the first goal would make things comfortable for them but Solari said anything could happen at their homeground.
“We are playing at home and we want to give a good show,” said Solari.
“We know Japanese clubs are strong because they compete in a good league. Kawasaki have quality players and a coach who has been there for six years.
“We have prepared for nine months to raise our level. It’s a challenge that we are looking forward to.”
