Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) head coach Xisco Munoz has remained tight-lipped on the absence of three heritage players ahead of their must-win AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26 League Stage(East Zone) clash against Japan’s Machida Zelvia on Tuesday.
The Southern Tigers return to Asia’s top stage seeking redemption after their opening defeat to Buriram United. However, JDT will face a stern challenge this time around as they are expected to be without Joao Figueiredo, Jon Irazabal, and Hector Hevel, all of whom are currently suspended by FIFA over alleged document falsification prior to representing Malaysia.
When pressed about their absence, Munoz declined to dwell on the controversy and instead shifted the focus to the players available for selection.
“One of the things we are thinking about right now is giving maximum focus to the players who are available, and that is exactly what we are doing,” Munoz told reporters at the pre-match press conference.
“The most important thing is to concentrate on the match and what we will do in the second game.”
Despite the setbacks, the Spanish coach is confident his squad will rise to the occasion in front of their home supporters at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium.
“We are trying to give our best in every aspect tomorrow, and we will also give everything for our fans,” he added.
JDT vs Machida Zelvia is scheduled for Tuesday, September 30, 2025, with kick-off at 8:15 PM
Credit Photo : Jayden Seah/SNE-Photo
