KUCHING: Kuching City FC’s head coach, Aidil Sharin Sahak, has tapped into his close ties with Hougang United FC to provide his squad with an international test on home soil.
The friendly comes as his side ramps up preparations for the Malaysia Cup first-leg semi-final against Selangor on April 5.
With the league currently on a break, the Singaporean tactician stressed the importance of maintaining momentum and match fitness, noting that the friendly offers a valuable platform to keep his players sharp ahead of the clash against the Red Giants.
“Any preparation game we play is valuable, and not many overseas teams can come to Kuching,” he said, adding that the decision to face Hougang United was also influenced by his close relationship with the Singaporean club.
Aidil also highlighted the importance of exposing his squad to different styles of play, explaining that facing foreign opposition presents a fresh challenge compared to familiar domestic rivals.
“We need to prepare for the Malaysia Cup game. That’s why we must have a good team while the league is on break, to maintain momentum and match fitness,” he told Sarawak Tribune when contacted today.
The friendly is expected to provide a timely test for Kuching City as they fine-tune their approach and build rhythm ahead on one of the most important fixtures of the season.
Aidil’s men will face Hougang United FC on Saturday, March 28, at 8.15 pm at Stadium Negeri, Petra Jaya, as announced on their social media page.
The Cats are currently on a three-game winning streak and sitting at third, two points behind Selangor in the Malaysian Super League after edging Penang FC 1-0 last weekend.
They have accumulated 40 points from 12 wins, four draws and three losses this season, with one match in hand.
