Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) head coach Xisco Muñoz has acknowledged the tough challenge awaiting his side as they prepare to face Buriram United in the opening match of the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26 (East Zone) League Stage tomorrow.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, the Spaniard stressed that his team is fully prepared and motivated after a strong result in their domestic campaign last weekend.
“Tomorrow will be a difficult game. We have prepared well and know what we need to adjust. We’ve come here with high expectations and full energy. Last weekend we had a good result, and now we will do our very best,” said Xisco.
Muñoz also revealed that Heberty Fernandes and Iker Andabarreña were left out of JDT’s registered squad for the competition, a decision he admitted was difficult.
“I feel sorry for the players we had to leave out, and I want to apologize to them. It’s never easy, but as head coach I have to make choices for the team. Part of this is due to the league’s foreign player quota,” he explained.
JDT will take on Thai giants Buriram United at Buriram Stadium on September 16, 7:15 PM local time, in what is expected to be one of the most closely watched fixtures of the opening round.
Credit Photo : JST
