KUCHING: “Selangor is still Selangor” was the clear warning from Aidil Sharin Sahak as Kuching City FC prepare for a crucial Super League clash against Selangor FC this Sunday (Feb 22), a late-night showdown that could tilt the balance in the race for second place.
Only one point separates The Red Giants in second on 32 points and The Cats in third with 31 points.
Lurking close behind are Kuala Lumpur City FC in fourth, just a point off Kuching and set to meet DPMM FC, ensuring the pressure extends beyond a single fixture.
Kuching City’s head coach said regardless of coaching changes or circumstances, Selangor remain one of the most established sides in Malaysian football.
“Selangor is still Selangor. It doesn’t matter who the coach is. They are always very serious and always building a good team with good management and a strong base of fans,” he told a post-match press conference recently.
The Singaporean tactician stressed that his players must be ready physically and mentally for the challenge, even with the absence of Ultras Selangor (Selangor’s fan-group).
“This is where we have to step into MBPJ Stadium with a good mindset, physically and mentally. Although we know the Ultras are not going to be there, their supporters still show they have a very strong fan base,” he added.
Beyond the league implications, both sides are also set to meet again in the Malaysia Cup semi-finals, making the encounter a psychological test ahead of the knockout stage.
“So we really have to work hard for it. Whether we get a good result or not, we will still face them in the semi-finals. We have to manage one game at a time and hopefully the boys can give a better performance against Selangor,” he said.
Kuching edged the previous meeting 1-0 at home last September, but Sunday’s clash carries far greater weight with second place now hanging in the balance.
Selangor arrive riding a five-match unbeaten run under new head coach, Kim Pan-gon, setting the stage for a tense late-night showdown.
Kick-off is scheduled for 10 pm on Sunday.
