KUALA LUMPUR: Pahang face a daunting task against favourites Terengganu, who are led by ace striker Faizal Saari, in the semi-finals of the Razak Cup hockey tournament at Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru today.
Three-time champions Terengganu look unstoppable as they won all six group matches and scored a whopping 36 goals and conceded 12.
National player Faizal, 34, contributed half of Terengganu's goals, as he bagged 17.
Pahang coach Sufian Mohamed said they have never won the Razak Cup title before despite reaching the final in 2019, 2021 and 2022.
"But for us to reach the final this year will be much tougher as Terengganu are a power-packed team.
"They have a lethal striker in Faizal, who can score from the field as well as penalty corners. We cannot give away penalty corners.
"Terengganu also have other experienced national players like Fitri Saari, Nik Aiman Nik Rozemi and goalkeeper Zaimi Mat Deris.
"We will start as underdogs. Although on paper they are favourites, we will give them a fight as anything is possible in a match," said Sufian.
Perak, who are gunning for their 14th title, will face hosts Johor in the other semi-final.
Perak coach K. Rajan said they have a 50-50 chance against Johor, who are unbeaten in group matches, and are powered by a few national and ex international players.
The Silver State will be relying on national forward Azrai Aizad Abu Kamal, who has scored 17 goals in six matches.
Johor coach Nor Aqmal Abdul Gaffar said that Perak are a solid team and that playing in the semi-finals is a different ball game.