JOHOR Darul Ta'zim (JDT) continued their historic run at this year's Asian Champions League (ACL) with a spirited 2-1 victory over two-time champions Ulsan Hyundai at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium on Monday, which solidified their claim for top spot in Group I.
Ulsan, who won the continental title in 2012 and 2020, lost after Brazilian striker Bergson da Silva scored his fourth goal in two games in the 80th minute to give JDT back-to-back wins after thrashing Guangzhou FC 5-0 on Friday.
The result left the South Korean side winless after two games following a late draw with Kawasaki Frontale on the opening day.
Fernando Forestieri had given JDT the lead in Iskandar Puteri with a curling strike in the third minute but Um Won Sang looked to have rescued a point for Hong Myung Bo's side until Da Silva bent his effort home late in the match.
JDT coach Benjamin Mora attributed the win to perfect game plan and self-belief.
JDT's win on Monday should be celebrated as they had defeated an elite club of Asian football.
Mora said his team used simple tactics to stop Ulsan from walking away with a win.
"My players had the self-belief that they could beat a top Korean team.
"They were consistent and had pressed Ulsan from the start. We also played tight in midfield to deny them from creating chances," said the Mexican coach after the match.
"Ulsan dominated with 63 per cent possession.
"However, we matched their strength by pressing forward and forcing them to make runs. It was our plan to tire them out.
"Of course, the Koreans were tactically and technically superior, and we struggled to contain them. They were moving the ball very well from defence to attack.
"However, we played well late in the game to seal the three points.
"I have to admit that it was hard to maintain our consistency, but we achieved our goal."
Ulsan coach Myong Bo said his defence was a letdown, and the players played below-par.
"We gave JDT too much space to roam. Our defence was at fault for both goals as they failed to close down JDT quickly enough.
"The defeat is a wake-up call for us.
"However, we are not giving up yet. We will try to get our revenge when we take on JDT again in the return group match." said Myong Bo, who captained the Korean national team to fourth place in the 2002 World Cup.