KUANTAN: Matches between Pahang and Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) have always been tense.
And fans can expect another close battle between both teams in Sunday’s Malaysia Cup quarter-final first leg blockbuster clash at the Darulmakmur Stadium here.
Both teams surprisingly did not have a smooth campaign in the group stage.
While Pahang failed to win a match at home in Group D, JDT only confirmed their last-eight spot when they defeated Mifa 3-0 in their final Group C game.
Dollah Salleh's side drew 1-1 with Premier League side Sabah on the opening day of the competition on Aug 4 before recording a 0-0 draw with PKNP FC on Aug 25, followed by a 3-1 defeat to Selangor on Sept 1.
Pahang midfielder Nor Azam Abdul Azih has reminded his teammates to minimise mistakes against JDT.
"We need to make it count at home tomorrow. JDT are strong at Larkin Stadium, so we need to score goals in the first leg,” said Nor Azam on Saturday.
“We may have failed to win a home match in the group stage, but I believe we will bounce back tomorrow.
“JDT have good players and we cannot make silly mistakes.”
JDT will be without their striker Fernando Marquez on Sunday, but Dollah said his absence means nothing to the Johor team as they have able replacements.
“They still have players like Safawi Rasid to lead their attack. My defenders have to be at their best.
“I do not have injuries, so my best players will be available. We have to win tomorrow,” said Dollah.