Kota Kinabalu: Sabah FA’s women’s team is well-prepared to face Rovers FC of Guam in their AFC Women’s Champions’ League Group A qualifier at Likas Stadium tonight (Monday).
Head coach Bobby Gonzales stated in Sunday’s pre-match press conference that despite missing several players, he remains confident the remaining squad will deliver their best performance.
“Our preparations went well. Having played several friendly matches, we have significantly improved our team chemistry.
“Every player is in excellent condition and highly enthusiastic. Although we are short-handed with 11 players currently competing in Sukma, this is no excuse for us not to give our absolute best in the upcoming games,” he said.
Skipper Steffi Sarge Kaur confirmed the team is mentally and physically prepared to face their opponents.
“We aim to do our best and take it one game at a time. Our full focus is on the opening match. After that, we will look ahead to the next challenge.
“Every team in this tournament is strong. As I said, we must stay focused on each match. Tomorrow, we face Guam. From there, we will get to study each team’s strengths and weaknesses,” she said.
Meanwhile, football fans in the State are urged to support Sabah FA in the tournament, which runs from August 17 to August 23, featuring East Bengal FC (India), Rovers FC (Guam) and Rajshahi Stars FC (Bangladesh).
Team manager Datuk Victor Ationg said that support from fans is very important to provide additional motivation to the players.
He emphasised that support is more than just being at the stadium. Prayers, kind messages, and positive words from fans will also give the team a big boost.
“To all our supporters in Sabah, we need your support. Wherever you are, continue to cheer and support our players.
“Every prayer, every message of encouragement and every word of support means a lot to the team,” he said this during the launch of the team’s third jersey for the competition recently.
He added that the tournament marks a proud milestone for Sabah women’s football, giving players a platform to elevate the State on the international stage and he reminded the players that the jersey is far more than a uniform as it embodies the identity, pride and spirit of Sabah.
