Like it or not, this has a final ‘feel’ to it. The Malaysia Super League will be going on a one-month hiatus to allow space for the national training camp to commence, ahead of the World Cup qualifiers. But before that, Pahang and Perak both have the chance to clinch victory and stay on top of the league for the next one month.
Both sides picked up crucial victories over the weekend. The Seladangs came from behind to defeat Selangor 2-1 away from home. Guilherme de Paula broke the deadlock for the home side, before Namkung Woong equalized through the spot kick. But the winner was scored by a player who has transformed impeccably over the last few years, Nurridzuan Abu Hassan.
Meanwhile, Pahang were made to work their socks off against Terengganu, before eventually sealing a 3-2 win. And it wasn’t surprising that they had the strength and confidence to claim that win, as validated in their 11-goal thriller in the AFC Cup last week. They maintained the exact same defensive solidarity, and held on to the score line, despite Terengganu’s best efforts.
Pahang are evidently the major favourites for this one. Leave alone the fact that they are playing at home; Pahang have also been banging in goals of late. They have scored 13 goals in their last 4 matches and they also possess the best defensive record in the league, having only conceded eight goals this season.
Nonetheless, Datuk M. Karathu’s side have every reason to be gunning for a win. They have won every single away game they’ve played in the league this year, and their record against the War Elephants is relatively convincing as well. They’ve won three of their last five matches against Pahang, including a 3-0 win in their last meeting.
While Pahang have the edge in terms of form, Perak have consistently defied the odds this season. They’ve beaten Johor DT, Selangor and even Felda United, despite being deemed as underdogs in those ties. A fine mix of youth and experience seems to be doing the trick for them, and fans will be expecting a victory.
But a simple glance at the Pahang team sheet will tell you that they have the necessary ammunition to seize top spot tonight. Question is, will they do it?
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