Saturday, December 25, 2010 | 4:34 pm
KUALA LUMPUR, KOMPAS.com - Coach Malaysia, K Rajagopal, claimed never thought to meet Indonesia in the final of AFF Cup 2010. Still, he's not afraid of the Word Utina et al, though was defeated 1-5 in preliminary round Group A.
Rajagopal be a coach on the rise, after last year brought Malaysian SEA Games champion. He said his team had found the best game and ready to face the two -leg final at the Bukit Jalil Stadium on Sunday (26/12/2010) and at the Bung Karno Main Stadium on Wednesday (12/29/2010). Following the interview Starsport by Rajagopal.
Have you been expecting since the beginning of the final is Malaysia versus Indonesia?
Frankly, I doubt it will happen. It reminds me of the experience during the SEA Games (2009) in Vientiane (Vietnam). At that time, we also lost 1-3 of Vietnam in the allowance and then beat them 1-0 in the final. I feel the same now. We lost to Indonesia (1-5) in the group stage and now we wish you the best during the final.
Indonesia appear perfect in the preliminary round and showed a good attack and defense.Indonesia include 15 goals and only conceded two goals. Your opinion?
Currently, statistics are important. But, I am not one to rely solely on the basis of statistical work. I do not care what happened 20 years ago. Indonesia has played well. But, it must be remembered that Indonesia is carried out five games at home in Jakarta. Sure, Indonesia has enjoyed this advantage.The most important thing for me is what is happening now. We will see later.
What will your team on the game "leg" both in Jakarta, December 29, later?
Of course, winning the match! What I want is victory. I want to be like Indonesia, which is able to beat the Philippines 1-0 in two semi-final match. I want our players played well in front of our supporters and prevent Indonesia scored an away party. If this happens, then I'd be happier.
What is your general opinion about Indonesia?
They also have a tradition of football. Competition between us is always interesting. In fact, we often had difficulty against Indonesia. But, like us, Indonesia also had to suffer in football. But, they are in the best game shape. Evidently, they were able to enter the final. Perhaps, this is also the rise of Indonesian football.
Which is the best game in the tournament Malaysia?
Point of departure is the champion three times against Thailand, where we were able to withstand a 0-0 draw. I still believe Thailand is still the strongest team in the AFF Cup. Then, we match opponent Laos. The players also performed well versus Vietnam. The game opponent Thailand and Vietnam are crucial.
Do you believe you can beat Indonesia in AFF Cup final?
The players have the ability to do so. I say the same thing against Vietnam in the semifinals. Yes, we can feel it. You can see the spirit of the players to perform insist on AFF Cup. The quality of their struggle and not want to lose attitude has brought us to step so far. We must do this again.
