Persib Have Limited Information on Manila Digger, Igor Tolic: “Everything Is Closed”
Persib Bandung head coach Igor Tolic admits that his team does not have much information about Manila Digger ahead of their AFC Champions League Two (ACL Two) playoff clash, with much of the Philippine champions’ recent activity remaining difficult to access.
Tolic explained that Persib’s coaching staff do not have enough data to properly study Manila Digger’s playing style. They only have limited information, including players who have joined or left the club, as well as footage from their previous encounters.
However, the Croatian coach believes those details cannot be fully relied upon, as Manila Digger have continued to develop. Persib’s coaching staff are even still trying to find broadcasts of the Philippine side’s recent matches, which have been difficult to access.
“Yes, they have released some players and brought in some new ones, but we still don’t have video footage of the friendly matches they have played. Everything is closed,” Igor Tolic told reporters.
Tolic also believes Manila Digger will be a different team compared to their previous meeting. He expects the Philippine champions to arrive with strong ambitions as they look to secure a place in the ACL Two group stage.
“They are preparing to face us. They are coming here to qualify for the ACL. We expect a team similar to last year: a compact defensive block, strong players, fast players, and a team ready to launch counter-attacks,” he added.
Despite having limited information about their opponents, Tolic hopes his players can maintain their strong performances in the upcoming match.
The Croatian coach is also encouraged by the squad’s motivation, with Persib’s players determined to maintain their positive momentum when they face Manila Digger in the ACL Two playoff.
