In a hard-fought match, Terengganu FC narrowly lost 2-3 to Cambodia’s Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng FC in the ACC Shopee Cup 2024/25 Group Stage (Group A), played at their home ground, the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium in Gong Badak, Terengganu.
Terengganu FC Head Coach Tomislav Steinbruckner admitted that his team struggled, especially in the first half when Svay Rieng took a commanding lead with two early goals. He acknowledged the lack of confidence his players displayed but found some satisfaction in their second-half performance, where they managed to press harder and close the gap.
A dramatic turn of events unfolded just before the final whistle when Terengganu was awarded a penalty, only for the decision to be overturned after a VAR review, leaving the home fans frustrated.
“I thought I saw a handball, but with VAR, it’s always uncertain. Sometimes it’s given, sometimes it’s not. I can’t say if it was a penalty or not—VAR controls that. It might have been a deflection, but honestly, I can’t remember clearly,” Tomislav reflected.
Despite the loss, he praised his team’s fightback in the second half, noting their collective effort in attempting to narrow the scoreline.
Addressing rumors on social media about his potential replacement, Tomislav said, “As a coach, I always do my best. The CEO and management can call me anytime to discuss my position. Every coach in the world knows they can be replaced. My bag is always packed.”
Looking ahead to the next cup game in a month, he acknowledged issues in midfield but expressed hope that the team would improve over the next few weeks as they evaluate player performance.
Terengganu FC forward Ismaheel Akinade shared his disappointment, emphasizing that the team hadn’t lost at home since November.
“We were too relaxed. Svay Rieng came in full of confidence, and we just weren’t good enough. If we want to advance in this competition, we need to step up. Yes, we played better in the second half, but it’s not enough. You have to play well for the entire 90 minutes, not just 30,” he concluded.
Credit Photo : TFC
