Eager for action: Kuala Lumpur centreback Giancarlo Gallifuoco speaking to the press ahead of the AFF Club Championships clash against Borneo Samarinda. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: Indonesia’s Borneo Samarinda are the beast, and Kuala Lumpur are the underdogs.
That’s KL centreback Giancarlo Gallifuoco’s assessment of the two teams who will clash in the second Group B match of the AFF Club Championships at the Cheras Football Stadium today.
Gallifuoco revealed that he has done his homework on the team that are currently second in Liga Satu Indonesia and what to expect from them.
“We have got a good start by beating Kaya Iloilo of the Philippines 1-0 in the first game but for this upcoming challenge, it is a different beast,” he said.
“I did my homework on the attackers while the coach and his team shared a lot of video analysis of our upcoming opponents.
“It is public knowledge that Borneo did a great job last year by finishing first in the Liga Satu.
“This season, they have started well by going unbeaten, winning four games and drawing two. They are in good form.
“Regardless of what is happening in the background, we would do what we would always do, which is to perform our best and for me personally, I would give my 150% in this game.”
Gallifuoco has been a standout for Kuala Lumpur in the last four seasons, being a pivotal figure on and off the field.
Many have said he is the glue in the dressing room, ensuring that the team stay harmonious and on the field, he is known for his superb defending and reading of the game.
Gallifuoco and his fellow defenders will have to be at their best as Borneo have some of the more formidable attackers.
They have Brazilian striker Leo Gaucho, who has scored three goals in the last six matches and then there is Burundi playmaker Christian Nduwarugura, who has scored two and is a constant threat with his movement and passes.
Then there is rapid winger Terens Puhiri, who is known for his pace and crosses, and experienced striker Stefano Lillipaly, who will add lots of dimension to Borneo’s attack. Gallifuoco vowed to give his all not just for the city, but also knows a win would bring pride to Malaysians.
