Despite already having a semi-final ticket in their pocket, Nam Định FC head coach Mauro Jerónimo has made it clear that his side will not be taking their foot off the gas when they host Johor Darul Ta’zim this Thursday in the Shopee Cup 2025/26 Group Stage, Group B.
The V.League 1 champions are currently the only team in the 2025/26 Shopee Cup with a flawless record, winning four out of four. While a draw against the Southern Tigers would guarantee them the top spot in Group B, Jerónimo is treating the encounter with the respect a “big name” opponent deserves.
Jerónimo was quick to highlight JDT’s stature in Asian football, acknowledging that the Malaysian giants bring a level of quality that requires his team to be at their absolute best.
“Johor Darul Ta’zim FC are a club with a big name, significant investment, and a strong history — multiple league titles in Malaysia and success in AFC competitions,” Jerónimo stated. “They have quality, especially in attack, and a very strong structure.”
Despite the glittering resume of their opponents, the Portuguese tactician urged his players to maintain their self-belief. “We respect them, but we must also believe in ourselves. We cannot have any inferiority complex. We need to be humble, but confident in what we have been doing.”
After a taxing 2-2 draw against Thanh Hóa in domestic action last Sunday, some expected Nam Định to rest key players. However, Jerónimo has shut down those rumors, confirming he will field his strongest available XI at the Thiên Trường Stadium.
With JDT needing only a point to join Nam Định in the semi-finals, the hosts are expecting a tactical chess match. Jerónimo emphasized that physical and mental readiness would be the deciding factors against a JDT side that has matched their 12-goal tournament tally.
Credit Photo : Nam Dinh FC
