The most prestigious cup competition in the country is back, with the kick off will be on the 20th of August 2013. It is the oldest football tourney in fact. But i am not interested to talk about history.
As a football fans, i am more looking forward to the future. I want something new in our football. History alone doesn't help to improvise our football. So, this year's edition of Malaysia cup, for me means nothing. Its good for any team to lift the cup by the end of October, but the winner won't qualify for the AFC cup spot next season.
So, i don't see the importance of winning it, at the first place.
However, it may be the best way to end the season in such colourful style. To end the season with the Malaysia Cup in your club's trophy cabinet would mean a lot to the fans. Furthermore, it would help the national players to remain at the best possible conditions in term of match fitness.
Lest look at the teams competing in this year's Watsons Malaysia cup.
Group A:
1. Selangor: One of the biggest favorites to win the cup. A team with great traditions especialy in Malaysia Cup. They finished the league campaign as the second best behind LionsXII. For me, they have a squad with balance in all department. I predict they will top this group and qualify for quarterfinal. Key players: Norazlan Razali, Mahali Jasuli, K Gurusamy, Amri Yahyah, Forkey Doe, S Kunanlan.
2. ATM: A season ago they were labbeled as Malaysia's Manchester city. But this year, they have experiencing some difficulties when some of the key players were out with injury. Always look dangerous when Bruno Martelotto have the ball at his feet. However, the squad were lacking strength in depth. A good team, but need to do better especialy away from home. Key Players: Amiridzwan Taj, Bruno Martelotto, Shukor Adan, Hairudin Omar, Marlon Alex James.
3. KL Sime Darby: A club with strong financial backings, but unfortunately struggling to have a solid fan base. Maybe the Selayang folks not aware with the existance of this football club. I am a fans of coach ismail Zakaria. he was my instructor during my coaching course way back in 2004. The good thing is, playing as underdogs will help Sime darby do perform with less presure. Don't be suprise if they snatch the second spot and qualify for the quarterfinal. Key Players:Karlo Primorac, Juzaili Samion, Shafiq Jamal, Yosri Derma Raju.
4. Johor: Many pundits write off their chances to make it to the quarter. To make it worse, Top goalscorer Orlando is out for a long term injury. Coach Azmi Mohamad probably have to work on local players such as Farid Ideris to spearhead the attacks. The strength of this team build around their midfield where See Kok Luen and Gallegos normally combining well with their neat passes. Key Players: Farid Ideris, Shoufiq Kusaini, See Kok luen, Khairul Ismail, Eze Gallegos.
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