KUALA LUMPUR: Never in his wildest dreams did Tajikistan coach Petar Segrt (pic) expect to see his side emerge as champions of the Merdeka Tournament by beating Malaysia 2-0 in the final at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Tuesday.
The Croatian, who has been coaching for 27 years in eight countries, felt Tajikistan’s success was achieved through a combination of hard work by the coaching staff and also the high discipline shown by their players.
“We ourselves were surprised by this victory because many do not know our players today,” said Sergt.
“This gold medal belongs to everyone in Tajikistan and I thank everyone involved with this national squad.
“The players worked really hard today and I can see the Under-21 players playing with confidence.
“I think everyone didn’t expect us to win and as I said during the press conference, the head coach (Malaysia) shouldn’t brag because what’s important is that the results have to be shown on the field.
“Where is the coach who often talks about win-win, tactics and character? We as coaches need to respect each other.’’
Two goals from Soirov Rustam and Samiev Shahrom in each half was enough to give the team ranked 110th in the world their first Merdeka Tournament trophy and upset Malaysia for the second time in a row.
Tajikistan had also emerged champions at the Thailand King’s Cup tournament with a 3-0 penalty shootout win over Malaysia after the final ended 0-0 in Chiangmai last year.
