Nidzam Adzha, Kedah, FA Cup, 20/05/2017Kedah FA

Nidzam proud of players who pulled through despite tough Pahang challenge

Kedah etched their name on the FA Cup trophy for the fourth time after edging out Pahang 3-2 in the final played on Saturday night at Shah Alam Stadium. 

Article continues below

A hard fought victory for the Red Eagles despite having the numerical advantage after Kiko Insa was sent off before half time. Baddrol Bakhtiar's brace and Ken Ilso's strike was enough to help Kedah emerge as the 2017 champions. 

For caretaker coach, Nidzam Adzha - this was his third time winning the trophy, twice as a player previously. In his post-match press conference, Nidzam admitted there were nerves during the match as his side allowed Pahang back into the game rather too easily.

"Thankful for the win. It was a tough game. Pahang attacked continuously and we made mistake in conceding those two goals. We were cautious because Pahang were playing direct football as they have good forwards and wide players but we manage to handle that situation," said Nidzam.

With Kedah having won the Malaysia Cup in 2016 and now the FA Cup, the target and attention soon turns back to the Super League and Nidzam played down the chances of his team catching up to Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) - proclaiming that JDT are still the favourites.

"I don't think we're at that level yet. In the game itself, we were a bit yo-yo. After leading comfortably, we conceded and it's something that happened in the league as well. The battle among the three will be a tough one. We know JDT and Pahang are good teams but we'll try," added Nidzam.

In the match, Nidzam was spotted donning a white shirt which is a norm match day attire for former head coach Tan Cheng Hoe. Nidzam was honest in saying that he still consults Tan on football matters and they remain in close contact despite the change in position.

"For me, he's a good individual and we're on constant contact. As for the shirt, maybe it's just a coincidence," laughed Nidzam on the comparison.

Advertisement