Fandi's 'Mission Possible'

Pahang coach hopes to defy the odds in Malaysia Cup final against mighty JDT

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The magic of Fandi Ahmad is inextricably linked with the Malaysia Cup and, 45 years after he scored Singapore's winner against Selangor in the 1980 final for his first title, the 62-year-old has a shot at another sensational title.

Now coach of Sri Pahang, the legendary striker has guided his team through numerous challenges to reach the April 12 Malaysia Cup final against giants Johor Darul Takzim (JDT).

"We know how hard we have fought on and off the pitch to be focused, firm and strong," he told The Straits Times on the sidelines of the BYD Football Fiesta at ARFC Woodleigh, where former Singapore internationals and former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs managed teams in a friendly futsal tournament on Feb 22.

"It is very difficult for other teams to win the league for at least the next 10 years because JDT are by far the strongest team with their financial power, infrastructure and players. But, in a one-off cup game, I believe we have a chance. It will be very, very tough, but not impossible."

While JDT boast tremendous financial clout, the outlook for other Malaysia Super League (MSL) clubs is not as rosy, as the privatisation of the league and its teams has not had quite the positive effect that was expected since the process started in 2015.