Football

JDT coach faces selection dilemma as new signings impress

KUALA LUMPUR: With everyone in his team playing well, Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) head coach Hector Bidoglio is having a "headache" deciding his starting 11.

The Venezuelan admitted to this situation after their commanding 5-0 victory over Penang in a Super League match at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium yesterday.

Even the new signings proved to be just as impressive. Enzo Lombardo, Iker Undabarrena, Eddy Israfilov and Jorge Obregon seamlessly fitted into the Southern Tigers' tactical framework.

"I'm extremely pleased with the performance of the new players. Their addition has significantly strengthened our team, especially as we gear up for the upcoming Champions League Elite.

"Today, they not only demonstrated their value, but also embraced our team's philosophy," said Bidoglio.

Colombian forward Obregon grabbed two goals in the 41st and 49th minutes. Oscar Arribas set the tone with an early goal in the third minute while substitutes Bergson Da Silva and Arif Aiman Hanapi each converted penalties in the 66th and stoppage time.

The Southern Tigers topped the Super League standings with 25 points from eight wins and one draw.

But JDT can expect a much tougher time in their next match against Chinese giants, Shanghai Port, who are led by former Chelsea star Oscar, at Pudong Soccer Stadium on Sept 18.

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