Johor Darul Takzim (JDT) midfielder Harris Harun believes that his side will be up to the task for the AFC Champions League this year.
The reigning Super League and AFC Cup champions will take on Thai Premier League (TPL) runners-up Muangthong United in the second qualifying round match in Nonthaburi, Thailand tonight.
JDT suffered at the hands of Bangkok Glass in last season’s tournament as they were torn apart 3-0 in the second qualifying round. They were eventually demoted to the AFC Cup, which they went on to become champions.
JDT visited Thailand last month to participate in two pre-season friendlies, in order to warm them up for the big clash against Muangthong United. They were first beaten 2-0 by TPL side Chonburi FC, but returned stronger in the second match as the defeated Thai Second Division side Big Bang Chula United 4-2.
“We grew closer as a team and learnt a few things about the Thai teams that we faced. We felt that the two matches prepared us to be more ready for our encounter against Muangthong,” Hariss Harun was quoted as saying by The Star
“Muangthong lost the league to Buriram United by 13 points last season, but were 4 places ahead of Bangkok Glass.
“However, we must not be feared as these matches make us better players. This will allow us to display our growth as a team,” Hariss added.
Paulo Rangel is not expected to feature tonight to face his former club as JDT has announced intentions to loan him out or demote him to JDT II.
Other posts by Prashant Kharbanda
