KUALA LUMPUR: Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) may have one foot in the Malaysia Cup final, but coach Hector Bidoglio insists his side must remain focused as they prepare to face Terengganu in the semi-final second leg at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium tomorrow.
JDT thrashed Terengganu 4-0 in the first leg at Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium on Jan 17, with Bergson da Silva netting a hat-trick and Heberty Fernandes adding the other goal.
"We played as a team and stayed compact in the first leg, but the challenge now is to sustain that level," said Bidoglio.
"Keeping our lead won't be easy because we are up against a team with quality players who will give their all."
Despite their commanding advantage, Bidoglio has made it clear that JDT will not take their foot off the pedal.
"This is an important trophy that we must defend. Every player needs to give their best to ensure we achieve our target," he added.
The Southern Tigers remain firm favourites to progress, but Terengganu are determined to put up a fight — even as coach Badrul Afzan Razali admitted their preparations have been disrupted by injuries and suspensions.
Nigerian striker Ismaheel Akinade, Akram Mahinan and goalkeeper Rahadiazli Rahalim will all miss the match.
"Akinade and Rahadiazli have been ruled out due to injuries, while Akram is suspended," said Badrul.
The situation is particularly difficult in goal, with first-choice keeper Suhaimi Hussin already sidelined with a long-term injury.
"For this crucial match, we only have Syed Nasrulhaq Syed Bidin from the main squad, and we've had to call up Terengganu FC II goalkeeper Faris Rifqi Abdul Rashid to fill the second slot," he added.
When asked about Terengganu's chances of reaching the final, the former midfielder admitted their hopes were slim after the heavy first-leg defeat.
However, he insisted his side would not roll over against JDT.
"Our focus will be on defence. We know JDT's strength when playing in Iskandar Puteri. It won't be easy, especially since we are trailing by four goals.
"I always remind my players to stay focused and disciplined. Any lapse in concentration could see us punished, just like in our last two matches against JDT," he said.