{
  "id": 13300730,
  "title": "Unfazed Munoz embraces packed schedule at JDT",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/10/unfazed-munoz-embraces-packed-schedule-at-jdt",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-10T02:31:21.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/sports/football/2026/10/1552191/unfazed-munoz-embraces-packed-schedule-jdt"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In the midst of a demanding timetable and heavy expectations, Johor Darul Ta'zi (JDT) head coach Xisco Munoz remains undaunted, considering the pressure as par for the course for a club aspiring to excel. The Spanish coach perceives the current scenario as an exhilarating challenge, emphasizing that each player in the JDT squad must be prepared to take on responsibilities and sustain high energy levels in every game. Following their 4-1 FA Cup quarter-final triumph over Penang, the Tigers have experienced a substantial change in lineup, yet there are areas that necessitate refinement. Instilling motivation and demanding 100% effort from the players following such a significant victory is not an easy task. Some players have demonstrated commendable play, while others require enhancement in their performance. This is the reality at JDT; the expectations are exceedingly high. When you belong to a prestigious club, there is no room for respite; you must always be prepared for the subsequent match. Munoz also called upon his backline to exhibit greater maturity and vigilance; despite a steady defensive display against Wan Rohaimi Wan Ismail's team, they eventually fell short with a goal in the final minutes. Such is football, sometimes we score and sometimes we concede. Nevertheless, we must refine ourselves, particularly during the beginning and end of matches, and learn from these minor lapses. JDT secured a semi-final spot in the FA Cup via an 11-3 aggregate victory, courtesy of goals from Bergson Da Silva, Nacho Mendez, Shahab Zahedi, and Manuel Hidalgo. Stefano Brundo equalized for Penang late in the game.",
  "summary": "ISKANDAR PUTERI: Despite navigating a packed schedule and immense pressure, Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) head coach Xisco Munoz remains unfazed, viewing the situation as the norm for a club expected to perform at the highest level.",
  "key_points": [
    "Johor Darul Ta zi coach Xisco Munoz embraces packed schedule",
    "Team's lineup changed after 4-1 FA Cup victory over Penang",
    "Munoz urges backline for greater maturity and vigilance"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Munoz's unruffled attitude and emphasis on sustained high energy levels signals a cultural expectation at JDT where players must rapidly adapt and elevate their performance to meet lofty club standards.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}