KUALA LUMPUR: Sri Pahang coach Fandi Ahmad was left frustrated by several “questionable” decisions following their 2-1 defeat to Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) in the Malaysia Cup final on Saturday.
In front of more than 56,000 fans at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil, Fandi refrained from openly criticising referee Razlan Joffri Ali, instead repeatedly telling the media: “You can watch it yourself.”
One major point of contention was Arif Aiman Hanapi’s 74th-minute winner, with Fandi suggesting a possible offside.
“I’m not sure. We just saw the video, and it looked like he was in an offside position.
“I think so, but we’re not sure. It didn’t show the VAR replay, and it really upset us,” he said.
Fandi also highlighted another incident where Sri Pahang were preparing two substitutions, but play continued, leading to JDT’s second goal.
“We had two substitutes waiting, but the referee didn’t stop the game. Syazwan Andik was still inside if I’m not mistaken.”
The Singaporean also criticised the VAR system, claiming only certain individuals were allowed to view it. However, he refused to elaborate further to avoid disciplinary action.
Fandi’s future at Sri Pahang remains uncertain, with his contract expiring at the end of the month.
“My contract ends at the end of this month. Even the players aren’t too sure what’s going to happen,” he said.
Meanwhile, JDT coach Hector Bidoglio praised his side’s hunger and winning mentality after clinching a third consecutive Malaysia Cup title.
Asked about the refereeing decisions, Bidoglio was quick to dismiss the controversy.
“In every final, I tell the players not to analyse. We need to win, so I don’t analyse the final.
“We must play with personality, character and technique.
“Today, JDT were champions, and it was really amazing,” said the Argentine.
Bidoglio admitted it had been a tough match, pointing to the long and tough season.
“We knew it would be difficult. After working for about 15-16 months, the last game is always hard.
“Our players have played in the M-League, the Asian Champions League, the national team, and international friendlies.
“It’s been a tough season but an excellent and amazing one,” he said.
JDT secured victory through Bergson da Silva’s penalty in the 54th minute and Arif’s decisive strike after T. Saravanan had given Sri Pahang a surprise early lead in the 14th minute.
The triumph sealed the Southern Tigers’ historic triple quadruple, completing another clean sweep of the 2024-2025 M-League season with the Super League, FA Cup, Charity Shield, and Malaysia Cup.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
