Malaysian Premier League (MPL) runner-up Pahang, will have their work cut out in the first leg of the Malaysia Cup quarter-final tie when LionsXII come visiting tonight.

The Elephants have lost their last two group games but can take encouragement from their 1-1 pre-Malaysia Cup friendly draw against tonight’s opponent last month. Coach Dollah Salleh can breathe a sigh of relief as he welcomes five key players back into the team following suspensions and injury. Russian import Boris Kochkin, Hafiz Kamal, captain Jalaluddin Jaafar and Shahrizan Salleh are reportedly back in training while Saifulnizam Miswan will be available for selection again after serving out his suspension.

Singapore’s LionsXII on the other hand, are expected to take along a full-strength squad to Kuantan as they have no injuries or suspensions to deal with. Full-back Juma’at Jantan is a slight doubt but the Singaporeans are otherwise in good shape after Hariss Harun and winger Yasir Hanapi were cleared to play following initial concerns that the duo might miss the game due to National Service commitments.

Pahang’s attack, having scored 17 goals in six matches, is the best in the competition while LionsXII have the meanest defence with only two goals conceded in group games, so expect an entertaining affair.

Be sure to catch the match live on Astro Arena at 8.45 pm.