JDT must secure three points against Magwe FC to book spot in ASEAN zone AFC cup semifinals

Former AFC Cup champion Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) must secure a win and collect three points in their ''must win'' Group F AFC Cup match against Myanmar's, Magwe FC at the Larkin Stadium tomorrow to qualify for the ASEAN Zone semifinals.

JDT assistant coach Ismail Ibrahim said JDT will have no other options but win their match against Magwe FC to continue their AFC Cup campaign, a cup they won in 2015.

Ismail, a former international who had played for Johor and Selangor, said JDT would be fielding their best starting 11 against the Myanmar club although a number of players would not be in the squad due to lack of fitness, suspension or injuries.

"For the time being, striker Gonzalo Cabrera remains doubtful while Fadhli Shas is injured and Safawi Rasid will be serving a one match suspension," he told reporters here today.

He said JDT had held Magwe FC to a 1-1 draw in their first leg and know the strength of their opponent to a certain level.

According to the new format of the AFC Cup competition this year, 11 teams from the ASEAN Zone comprising three groups, F, G and H will battle for four places available for the semifinals.

So far, Singapore''s Home United from Group H have secured their spot for the ASEAN Zone semifinals.

-- BERNAMA