KUALA LUMPUR, May 23 — The much-awaited FA Cup final could be a game of cat-and-mouse with a solitary strike enough to win the trophy.

While Kelantan is no stranger to big occasions, with a sea of red poised to blanket National Stadium today, its southern counterpart could be overwhelmed by the expected more than 80,000 fans.

The form of both sides have been abysmal. LionsXII and Kelantan are sitting eighth and 10th in the league, and the FA Cup final provides an opportunity to display true form.

LionsXII has been dominant since the start of the tournament and holds the distinction of scoring the most goals (16) and conceding only four to date.

Kelantan, scoring 10 goals in the league, has netted the same amount in the Cup while being penetrated only four times.

LionsXII chief Fandi Ahmad has won eight titles in the M-League as a player but has yet to taste success as player and coach in the FA Cup.

The charismatic 52-year-old, while eager to add the title to his accolade, did not put unnecessary pressure on his players.

“Many of my players have not experienced playing in a big game like this but I hope they will rise to the occasion. We are confident with our counterattacking abilities and will fight till the final whistle,” he said yesterday.

Kelantan will go into the match as favourite. But 62-year-old coach Azraai Khor Addullah has warned his team to be focused. He knows one mistake will be enough for the dynamic Singaporeans to punish his team.

They will look to absorb the pressure and hit the Red Warriors on the break.

An early goal would set the tone for an exciting final but judging by both team’s journey to the final, the team that scores first will most likely win.