Believe it or not, we’re into the semi-final stage of the Malaysia FA Cup. It seemed like days ago, when Round 1 got underway, but three months into the season, we’re on the verge of concluding the FA Cup, with the final set to take place later this month.
We’ve got two monumental ties on the cards as well. LionsXII will be taking on Terengganu in what should be a sterling affair, while Kelantan face their East Coast rival Pahang, who are also the new league leaders in the MSL.
The stage has been set for all four teams to shine impeccably and while form plays a part in their ability to grind out a win, cup competitions have always had a magic of their own, especially the FA Cup. Hence, we’ve put together a list of five things to expect from the semi finals of the FA Cup.
1. Spirited performance from Terengganu
First leg of the tie between Terengganu and LionsXII will take place at the Jalan Besar Stadium, but the second leg will represent a historic moment for the Turtles, as they prepare to officiate the refurbished Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium in Kuala Terengganu. The stadium now possesses a high quality pitch, alongside fantastic facilities within the dressing room as well. In a period of time where Malaysian football teams are all beginning to push for systematic change within the system as well as in terms of infrastructure, Terengganu have taken a massive step forward in the manner in which they have revived this ground. And when they contest the second leg in it, players and fans will be determined to kick it off with a win. Beware, LionsXII. You have been warned.
2. Amiridzwan Taj to start against Pahang
One of Azraai Khor’s biggest frustration with Kelantan’s squad is the lack of players who are willing to give their all on the pitch. Defensively, they have been slightly inconsistent as well, particularly in their defeat to Sarawak last time out. Considering that Pahang’s forwards possess upper body strength, Amiridzwan Taj will most likely be tasked to deal with them. Beyond that, Taj is also a player that works his socks off on the pitch, so that fits the philosophy of Azraai.
3. Jalan Besar Stadium to host a close affair
Malaysians teams generally adopt a cautious approach when they play at the Jalan Besar Stadium, due to the artificial pitch. In fact, if you were to look at the head-to-head record between Terengganu and LionsXII, only six goals have been scored in the last five meetings between both sides at the Jalan Besar Stadium. Two of those games ended up being 0-0 draws as well; which effectively validates the claim. And trend doesn’t suggest otherwise, either. Earlier this season, both sides faced each other in the Malaysia Super League, and it was a closely contested battle, and the match ended 1-1.
4. Austin Amutu to shine against Pahang
Kelantan’s attacking focal point in this game will be Austin Amutu, for reasons that are easily comprehensible. Gilmar will be forced to go against a terrific defender in the form of Damion Stewart, while Razman Roslan will be more than a handful for Erwin Carillo to deal with. Austin Amutu on the other hand, with his role on the flanks, will have the space he needs to operate around the Pahang defence confidently. The Elephants have an excellent defensive record this season, but if Amutu turns on the style with his unpredictable nature, things could get haywire for Zainal Abidin’s men.
5. Fantastic atmospheres throughout all matches.
If you’re a fan of Kelantan, LionsXII, Pahang or Terengganu, and you’re still considering the option of watching the game live at the stadium, then fret no more. The answer is yes. Cup competitions are always special affairs, and unexpected things happen when you least expect them to. Moreover, teams involved in the semi finals this year, are well-known for their boisterous support groups. If atmosphere is the turning point, then you have it there. Both legs in both games will possess an incredible atmosphere, which at the end of the day, always plays a part in determining the outcome over two legs.
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