KUALA LUMPUR: While many teams are struggling with the hectic football season, Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) continue to maintain their killer instinct with remarkable success.
On Sunday, the Southern Tigers thrashed Kelantan Darul Naim 6-1 at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium to maintain their unbeaten run in the Super League.
JDT coach Hector Bidoglio is fortunate to have a strong squad with depth that allows them to maintain consistency in both the M-League and the Asian Champions League Elite (ACLE).
Despite the challenges, Bidoglio remains optimistic that JDT will perform well in each match.
Just days before their commanding win, JDT travelled to China to face Shanghai Port in an ACLE match, which ended 2-2.
JDT will now prepare for their next Super League match at home against Kuching City on Friday before hosting China's Shanghai Shenhua in the ACLE on Oct 1.
"I don't see any tired players. Everyone is in good form, and the team delivered an excellent performance.
"It was challenging to score early, but we adjusted our tactics, exploited the flanks, and won crucial individual battles," Bidoglio said of Sunday's victory.
Bergson da Silva was the hero for JDT with a hat-trick in the 42nd, 45th and 71st minutes, while winger Arif Aiman Hanapi added two goals (55th and 58th).
An own goal by Kelantan's Umeir Aznan in the 75th minute rounded off JDT's dominant night.
Kelantan's Layth Ali Abdalrahim Kharoub scored a consolation goal in the 65th minute.
Bidoglio also addressed defender Syahmi Safari's injury during Sunday's press conference.
Syahmi hinted at a long-term setback in a recent cryptic Instagram post.
"I want to see him back on the pitch as soon as possible. This is football. He might be out for three months, but we are all here to support him.
"He's young and has a bright future ahead, but patience is key," said Bidoglio, adding that Syahmi is currently undergoing treatment for an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in Spain.