DPMM FC new head coach Rui Batista is looking at bringing the team to higher level of performance in the upcoming 2024-25 Singapore Premier League (SPL) season.
In an interview at the sideline of the players and sponsors signing ceremony, coach Rui Batista expressed his expectations for this season.
“We will try to improve the ranking from the last season because we deserve to be in better position. With the current team and new players, we will be able to improve our performance in this coming season,” he said.
On the squad’s chemistry, he said, “The players have been working well together. The squad has given their best during training, tournaments and friendlies in the pre-season preparations. I expect the team to be in an even better shape as the league goes on, which will improve the quality of play.”
Brunei DPMM FC’s first match of the SPL will take place this Saturday night against the Young Lion in Singapore.
“We will be playing against Young Lions and we will be looking to win our first match of the league. We are expecting a tough match as all the teams in the league have improved.
Every match will not be easy but I have upmost confidence in DPMM FC,” said Batista.
On the pre-season lost to Selangor FC 4-0 in the pre-season tournament, he said, “Selangor FC started their pre-season training in January while we are only in our four weeks of training. We have learned from the defeat on what to improve on, which is physical and tactical conditions of players. In addition, we are currently boosted by the arrival of our new striker from Mexico, Julio Cesar Cruz Gonzalez.”
He also said, “I hope that all football fans will come out to support DPMM FC when we play our home games. With the supporters, the team will be inspired to play at a higher level of football.”
New import player Miguel Angelo Agostinho Oliveira shared his hope playing for DPMM FC.
“Last season, I was playing in Kuwait and this year I become a free agent. I came to Brunei to attend a two-week trial with DPMM FC and today, I am here to sign for the club. I hope that I can help the club to achieve our goal of winning the league,” he said.
The winger said, “The team has many new players and the process includes day-by-day training and games.”
“We have been training together for two months and I feel that the team has strong chemistry and bond. I expect the team to win its opening match against Young Lions and I hope that I can either score or assist in scoring during the match.”
Patrick Stacey Murnane Flottmann ,another new import, vows to do his best to contribute to the success of DPMM FC.
The Australian, who is playing at the backline of the team, hopes his defensive prowess will play a role in helping DPMM FC to win the league this year. – James Kon
