Coach Polking asserts that CAHN is not psychologically affected

Despite recently being handed a 0-3 loss, Coach Polking insists that CAHN will not let off-field issues impact their competitive spirit.

Just hours before the press conference for the second leg of the AFC Champions League Round of 16 in Singapore, CAHN received a severe penalty from the AFC: a 0-3 forfeit loss in the first leg due to fielding two ineligible players. This news was like a cold shower for Coach Alexandre Polking and his team right before their most crucial match of the season.

The two players deemed ineligible were Rogerio Alves and Stefan Mauk, who had each accumulated three yellow cards during the group stage and were therefore suspended. In addition to the 0-3 forfeit loss, CAHN was fined $2,000 and had 50% of their tournament participation support cut, with any excess funds to be reimbursed. This procedural error completely erased their previous 4-0 advantage at Hang Day Stadium.

This disciplinary ruling reversed the situation. From holding a significant advantage, CAHN now must win by at least a 4-goal margin in the second leg to qualify directly for the quarterfinals, or win by 3 goals to push the match into extra time or penalties. This task becomes extremely difficult as they face Tampines Rovers away at Jalan Besar Stadium.

At the February 17 press conference, Coach Polking openly accepted responsibility without avoiding fault. He shared that he did not want to blame anyone and emphasized that football should be decided on the pitch, not by off-field issues. The Brazilian coach expressed his dissatisfaction with the situation but maintained professionalism and full focus on the upcoming game.

Polking acknowledged this as a significant management lesson regarding player eligibility, even though the team had attended all technical meetings and received notifications from the organizers. Despite the disappointment, he affirmed CAHN will not let off-field matters affect their fighting spirit. According to him, the best response is to demonstrate resilience through a strong and convincing performance.

On the other side, Tampines Rovers' interim coach Robert Eziakor expressed confidence, stating the home team will concentrate on what they can control: solid defense and leveraging home advantage. However, despite the tough challenge ahead, CAHN still has a chance if they maximize their fighting spirit. In adversity, Coach Polking’s statement reaffirms that the team’s fate should be determined by what happens on the field.

Quang Hải speaks confidently, determined to beat Tampines Rovers

OFFICIAL: CAHN Club handed a 0-3 loss by AFC