Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) head coach, Mohd Nidzam Jamil, admitted that his team’s dramatic late comebacks were never part of the plan, but he was proud of the fighting spirit shown by his players in their 2-2 draw against Kuching City FC in the Super League last night.

The clash at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium, Paroi saw NSFC trail by two goals before mounting a spirited fightback to secure a point. Remarkably, it was the second consecutive match where the Hobin Jang Hobin squad staged a late turnaround at home, following their 2-1 victory over Selangor FC the previous weekend.

“No coach wants to always chase the game – to concede one or two goals and then fight back. That’s not something we plan for. What matters is that we learn to manage games better,” said Nidzam during the post-match press conference.

The 45-year-old coach explained that NSFC had to take risks in pursuit of goals, leaving space behind that made them vulnerable to counterattacks.

“When we go all out for a goal, of course there are risks. But I was pleased with how our goalkeeper and defenders handled the pressure in the second half. We still need to tighten our defensive structure, but overall I’m happy we managed to get something out of the game,” he added.

Despite settling for a draw, Nidzam described the result as valuable, especially in maintaining the team’s positive momentum and confidence.

“This is part of the team-building process. We’re still learning, still growing, and one point is important for us. The players showed determination, and that’s what we must carry into future matches,” he said.

With the 2-2 result against Kuching City, NSFC now have four points from three matches, following one win, one draw, and one defeat.

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) showcased their resilience once again after battling back from two goals down to hold Kuching City FC 2-2 in a pulsating Super League clash at the Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi.

Head coach Mohd Nidzam Jamil admitted the match demanded immense effort and focus from his players, but he was proud of the spirit they displayed to secure a vital point.

“Kuching City are a strong side, with powerful and quick forwards who made it very difficult for us. But I’m happy with how the team fought back in the second half. In the end, we were fortunate to take one point, and that is important for our momentum,” said Nidzam after the match.

A Tough Start, A Strong Response

The visitors struck early through Ahmad Danial Ahmad Asri in the 6th minute before import striker Wanja Ronald Ngah doubled the lead shortly after the break. Facing a 0-2 deficit, NSFC turned to their home crowd of more than 24,000 fans for inspiration.

The comeback began in the 78th minute when Joseph Esso calmly slotted home from close range. Then, in stoppage time, towering defender Luis Enrique Nsue Etugu powered in the equaliser to send Paroi into raptures.

Building on Positives

The result leaves NSFC with four points from their opening three matches, following a narrow 3-5 defeat to defending champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) and a thrilling 2-1 win against Selangor FC last week.

“Football is unforgiving. Against strong teams like JDT, Selangor, Kuching City, or Sabah, one small mistake can be punished. But the way the players reacted tonight, not giving up until the final whistle, is exactly the mentality we need,” Nidzam noted.

The Road Ahead

NSFC now sit in sixth place, level on points with Kuching City, and will look to build on their encouraging start as the season progresses. Nidzam stressed the importance of discipline and continuous improvement as the team faces more stern tests in the coming weeks.