Garrido: Sabah target calm, disciplined display in challenge cup semi-final clash with Perak

KOTA KINABALU (March 4): Sabah FC are targeting a positive result in the first leg of the MFL Challenge Cup semi-final against Perak FA despite facing a tight schedule and limited preparation time.

Newly-appointed head coach Juan Torres Garrido said the squad has had to cope with a demanding fixture list and short training sessions, but he remains confident in the players’ commitment and focus ahead of the match at MP Manjung Stadium on Wednesday.

“We are facing a very tight schedule with limited training time, but the players are working hard to achieve the team’s objectives,” he was quoted as saying by sabah-fc.com.

The Spanish tactician stressed that his immediate priority is the first leg in Manjung, even though the semi-final will be decided over two legs.

“We’ll take one game at a time. Our focus is only on the next match. We need to continue the process of building a consistent team.

“I am happy with the players’ attitude. We are on the same path and need to maintain this momentum,” said Garrido, who will lead Sabah for only the second game since his appointment last week.

On their opponents, Garrido described Perak as a well-drilled and tactically disciplined side, particularly dangerous on the counterattack.

“Based on our analysis, they are very structured and tactically solid. They can be dangerous when given space to transition quickly,” he said.

He stressed Sabah will go all out to produce a disciplined and composed performance as they look for comfortable advantage for in the first leg.

“Experience and mental strength are vital in high-stakes matches but the hunger as well as the desire and determination to win will ultimately shape the outcome,” he added.

The second leg of the MFL Challenge Cup semifinal will be held at Likas Stadium on March 11.