Johor bahru: Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) head coach Xisco Munoz is proud of his team's performance despite being held to a 0-0 draw by Shanghai Port in the AFC Champions League (ACL) Elite at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium here last night. He said the Southern Tigers delivered a complete and high-intensity display from the first minute to the last, showcasing the true values and identity of JDT throughout the match.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Munoz expressed gratitude towards his players for controlling the game, playing well, and creating numerous chances. He emphasized that although the team's primary aim was to win, maintaining progress and momentum was crucial. When questioned about the role of luck in the match, Munoz stated that he did not believe in luck, affirming that the team executed their tactical approach and game-management plan to near perfection.

Munoz highlighted the team's successful high pressing strategy, noting their ability to recover possession frequently in the opponent's half. He remarked that Shanghai Port only managed to threaten twice in the first half through individual actions and fast transitions due to their quick wingers and wing-backs.

Meanwhile, Shanghai Port FC head coach Kevin Muscat acknowledged the significance of the point gained, especially considering the injury concerns and health issues affecting his team before the match. Muscat commended his players for their resilience, emphasizing their strong fighting spirit despite the less-than-ideal squad situation.

Muscat also praised goalkeeper Chen Wei, who was named Man of the Match for his solid performance. He expressed satisfaction with the team's defensive focus and ability to close spaces effectively against JDT's attacking efforts. Chen Wei attributed his performance to the high-intensity training sessions led by the coaching staff, which he credited for helping him perform at his best.