SAITAMA: Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) are determined to extend their fairy tale journey in the Asian Champions League (ACL) as they take on Japan's Urawa Red Diamonds in the last-16 at Saitama Stadium tomorrow.
It is the Southern Tigers' first appearance at this stage of the ACL, while Urawa are not only two-time champions but regular participants in the knockout stages of the tournament.
JDT coach Hector Bidoglio, while admitting it would be a tough test, said his side are determined to produce their best.
"It is going to be a difficult game, but we are determined to show our best," the Venezuelan told www.the-afc.com today.
"We have stressed to the players the importance of the game and the need to stay focused,"
Bidoglio, who replaced Mexican Benjamin Mora three weeks ago, said it was not difficult to assume the post as he inherited a squad of players who know what they want.
"The players have a fantastic mentality. They know their capabilities, and we can match Urawa.
"Urawa are a very good side, who like to play short balls and press. The key point is to have the ball. If we do this, it will be more manageable for us."
JDT goalkeeper Farizal Marlias said the players are looking forward to locking horns with one of Asia's top clubs.
"We worked very hard to advance to this stage, but we want to go further. We are looking forward to playing against Urawa," he said.
Unlike JDT, who are on course for their ninth straight Super League crown, Urawa are way off the pace in Japan, with Ricardo Rodriguez's side seventh in the standings and trailing leaders Yokohama F. Marinos by 13 points.
However, Urawa will go into the game on the back of two impressive wins in the J. League Cup and J League, which Rodriguez said was a boost ahead of the JDT tie.
"It was very important for us to qualify for the last 16 and have good games," said Rodriguez.
"It is good to be playing at home, but having said that, we must play a perfect game as the level of all the teams is very high."
Rodriguez said Urawa would have to tread with caution against an improved JDT.
"JDT have improved tremendously since 2015, and they have good local and foreign players.
"I do not expect an easy match. They have defeated top Japanese and Korean teams, and we will have to play at a very high level if we want to win."