Johor Darul Ta’zim Face Acid Test Against High-Flying Gwangju FC
The 2024-25 AFC Champions League Elite campaign is heating up, and Johor Darul Ta’zim are set to face their toughest challenge yet. With four points from their opening two matches, the Malaysian outfit is second in the East Zone, but they will need to be at their best when they take on tournament debutants Gwangju FC.
The Rise of Gwangju FC
Gwangju FC may have been unknown quantities at the start of the tournament, but their stunning 7-3 win over Yokohama F. Marinos and 1-0 triumph over Kawasaki Frontale have sent shockwaves throughout the competition. The South Korean upstarts are now the team to beat, and Johor Darul Ta’zim will need to be wary of their opponents’ intensity and teamwork.
A Change of Venue
The match was originally scheduled to take place at Gwangju’s regular home ground, but concerns over the pitch have led to a change of venue. The game will now be played at Yongin Mireu Stadium, over 260 kilometers away from Gwangju’s home ground. However, this is unlikely to affect Gwangju’s momentum, and Johor Darul Ta’zim will still face a tough test.
JDT Coach Héctor Bidoglio Unfazed
Despite Gwangju’s impressive form, Johor Darul Ta’zim coach Héctor Bidoglio remains confident. “We know about Gwangju – they are intense, play as a team, and like to keep the ball and play in the opponent’s side of the pitch,” he said. “But we must put the focus on ourselves. We also like to keep the ball and have very good players. We want to be the protagonists.”
New Signing Jesé Set to Make Debut
Johor Darul Ta’zim could unleash new signing Jesé, a former Real Madrid forward, against Gwangju FC. Jesé has an impressive résumé, having played for Paris Saint-Germain and in the Premier League with Stoke. According to Bidoglio, Jesé is in good condition and has a good chance of starting the match.
The stage is set for an exciting encounter between Johor Darul Ta’zim and Gwangju FC. Will the Malaysian outfit be able to contain the high-flying South Koreans, or will Gwangju FC continue their winning streak?
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