KUCHING: Former Sarawak football stars Pengiran Bala and Joseph Kalang Tie have backed Kuching City FC ahead of the Malaysia Cup final, describing the clash against Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) as a “50-50” battle despite the Southern Tigers’ dominance.
Pengiran Bala said Kuching City’s run to the final has reignited excitement among Sarawak football fans, with the state waiting years to see another local side compete on such a stage.
He believes the Cats have shown throughout the season that they are capable of challenging the country’s top team.
“Congratulations to Kuching City FC for reaching the Malaysia Cup final. We have waited a long time for this opportunity.
“For me, this is our chance. If we look at Kuching City’s performances, they have continued improving and hopefully they can achieve something positive.
“We believe with the strength and performance of the team, the opportunity is there, even though we know JDT have very good players,” he told Sarawak Tribune recently.
Pengiran, who still holds the Malaysia Cup record for the fastest goal scored after netting eight seconds into a match against Pahang in 1989, said recent performances suggest the gap between both sides may not be as wide as many expect.
“For me it is 50-50 if we look at the recent performances, because the last game ended 1-0. Of course, everyone in Sarawak wants to see Kuching City win,” he said.
Meanwhile, Joseph said Kuching City must embrace the occasion with confidence and strong mentality, stressing that finals are often unpredictable.
The former national midfielder, who finished runner-up in three Malaysia Cup finals during his playing career, said matches of such magnitude are rarely decided on paper.
“Of course the hopes are very high. I experienced three finals and finished runners-up three times, so I know how difficult it can be. But in football, anything can happen, especially in a final.
“With a good mindset and positive mentality, it becomes 50-50 on the field. The team that performs better and makes fewer mistakes will have the advantage,” he said.
The Cats head into the final aiming to complete another remarkable chapter in the club’s rise while carrying the hopes of Sarawak football fans eager to see a major trophy return to the state.
