KUALA LUMPUR: Though Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) routed Malaysian University 13-0 on aggregate in the FA Cup quarter-finals, coach Hector Bidoglio emphasised that his team's performance outweighs the scoreline.
Yesterday, JDT won 8-0 in the return leg at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium with goals from Heberty Fernandes (26th, 29th minutes), Romel Morales (72nd, 90th), Juan Muniz (19th), Feroz Baharuddin (34th), Francisco Geraldes (60th), and Bergson Da Silva (78th). JDT won the first leg 5-0.
"What's more important is the team's performance. Even if we win 3-0 but play poorly, I won't be satisfied. I'm happy to see them play well together; results are secondary," said Bidoglio.
Though JDT have dominated the M-League for a decade, Bidoglio said it's important that the Southern Tigers show continuous improvement.
"We must enhance individual skills, strengthen team dynamics, and maintain intensity," he said.
Malaysian University coach Ridzuan Abu Shah acknowledged the disparity between his A1 Semi-Pro League side and JDT's Super League squad.
"We're aware of the gap between us and JDT. They fielded a nearly full-strength squad against our all-local team. We did our best, but the reality is clear: we are not at their level," said Ridzuan.
Ridzuan viewed the thrashing by JDT as a valuable learning experience for both his players and the coaching staff.