FA Cup Final: JDT Remain Confident Despite Injury and Suspension Setbacks
KUALA LUMPUR: Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) may be facing a significant injury and suspension crisis ahead of the FA Cup final against Sabah FC, but head coach Xisco Munoz remains confident that his side’s identity and squad depth will carry them through the challenge.
JDT will head into the final without several key players, including three who are suspended — Hector Hevel, Joao Figueiredo and Jon Irazabal — while others remain sidelined due to injuries. Despite the setback, Xisco insisted that the team’s preparation and mentality have not been affected.
“We are missing almost 50 per cent of our important players, yet the team continues to progress and win matches. If this situation happened at other clubs, it could cause chaos,” Xisco said during a pre-match press conference at the National Stadium.
According to the Spanish tactician, JDT’s strength lies not in individual brilliance but in a well-established system that allows players to step in and perform their roles effectively.
“We have a strong squad. What matters is that whoever is selected gives their best and follows our style of play,” he added.
JDT’s injury list includes several influential names, forcing the coaching staff to make tactical adjustments. However, Xisco believes the club’s philosophy and structure will ensure continuity regardless of personnel changes.
At the same time, Xisco was quick to acknowledge the threat posed by Sabah FC, particularly after their impressive semi-final victory over Selangor.
“We know what Sabah can do tactically. We understand how they move, how they play and how they eliminated Selangor. They are a very competitive team,” he said.
Xisco emphasised that JDT must start the match with intensity and focus, staying true to their identity from the opening whistle if they are to defend their FA Cup title.
Team captain Natxo Insa echoed his coach’s confidence, stressing that challenges are part of football and often create opportunities for other players.
“This is football. Sometimes bad news for one player becomes a good opportunity for another. We have a big squad and we are performing well,” Insa said.
He added that the players see the situation as a challenge rather than a setback, determined to prove that JDT can perform at the highest level regardless of who is on the pitch.
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