Author: aircond

Negeri Sembilan FC in the Malaysia FA Cup: A Storied Legacy

1. The Rise of a New Contender (2003)

Negeri Sembilan FC clinched their first-ever Malaysia FA Cup title in 2003. In a dramatic final against Perlis, the match was sealed by a late goal from Everson Martinelli, following a comeback initiated by Effendi Malek. This historic win laid the foundation for the club’s emergence as a force in Malaysian football.

2. Redemption and Triumph in 2010

After years of steady progress — including Semi‑final finishes in 1993, 1999, 2006, and 2009 — Negeri Sembilan once again lifted the FA Cup in 2010.

Facing Kelantan, the final remained goalless through regular and extra time, ultimately being decided in a nail‑biting penalty shootout. Negeri Sembilan emerged victorious 5–4, with goalkeeper Farizal Marlias delivering a standout performance to secure the trophy.

3. Consistent Performers Through the Years

Over the decades, Negeri Sembilan FC has been a familiar contender in the FA Cup, reaching:

  • Semi-finals in 1993, 1999, 2006, 2009, and 2017
  • Quarter-finals in 1997, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2013, and 2023

As of 2024, they reached the Round of 16, reflecting consistent competitiveness in Malaysia’s premier knockout tournament.

4. A Golden Generation and National Recognition

The period between 2003 and 2011 represented a golden era for the club. With standout players such as Shukor Adan, Aidil Zafuan, Zaquan Adha, Hairuddin Omar, S. Kunanlan, Farizal Marlias, and Shahurain Abu Samah, Negeri Sembilan enjoyed sustained success across competitions.

5. Honours at a Glance

CompetitionTitles
Malaysia FA Cup2 (2003, 2010)
Malaysia Cup3 (1948, 2009, 2011)
Malaysia League1 (2005–06)
Charity Shield1 (2012)

Why It Matters

Negeri Sembilan FC’s history in the Piala FA is not just about lifting trophies; it’s about narrating a story of resilience, strategic evolution, and competitive spirit.

Their first triumph in 2003 marked a major turning point; the dramatic 2010 win further solidified their reputation; and continued deep runs in the tournament underscore a legacy built on persistence and passion.

This blend of history and ambition paints a compelling narrative — one that resonates deeply with fans, stakeholders, and anyone passionate about Malaysian football.

Nidzam Proud of NSFC’s Fighting Spirit Despite Opening Day Defeat to JDT

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) head coach, Mohd Nidzam Jamil, expressed pride in his players’ commitment and determination despite falling 3-5 to defending 11-time Super League champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) in their opening fixture at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, Iskandar Puteri, last Tuesday.

Nidzam acknowledged that while his side showcased moments of quality and resilience against Xisco Muñoz’s well-drilled squad, the loss was a hard pill to swallow — especially in a challenging away venue where victories are notoriously difficult to secure.

“Tonight, there are many aspects we need to review, particularly when we take the lead. Playing at JDT’s home ground, we must know how to handle their relentless pressure. Even after going 2-0 up, we conceded cheaply from a corner and failed to execute the offside trap effectively, which allowed them to capitalise,” he said.

The coach highlighted JDT’s expansive style of play and strong midfield control, which posed significant challenges for his team. Nonetheless, he praised his players for giving their all and urged them to maintain that fighting spirit for the rest of the season.

Injury Concerns

Nidzam confirmed the absence of forward Luqman Hakim Shamsudin, who sustained a muscle injury five days prior and is currently undergoing rehabilitation.

Captain Ahmad Khuzaimi Piee was also unavailable, still recovering from a knee injury picked up in a pre-season friendly against Indonesian club Semen Padang.

“Their absence opened the door for players like N. Javabilaarivin, who spent the last two seasons in the A1 League, and Zainal Abidin Jamil, who played aggressively in defence,” Nidzam added.

Focus Shifts to FA Cup

Looking ahead, NSFC will host PDRM FC in the FA Cup Round of 16 first leg at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium, Paroi. Nidzam views the home advantage as an opportunity to bounce back and deliver a stronger performance.

“We’ll continue to refine our tactics, strengthen the squad, and give our best in the upcoming match,” he said.

With the season still in its early stages, NSFC remain determined to improve their performances, fix defensive lapses, and climb the league standings while maintaining belief in their game plan.

Opponent Analysis: PDRM FC Home Piala FA 2025/2026

1. Tactical Identity – Two Faces of PDRM

PDRM FC have shown in back-to-back matches that they can adapt their approach depending on the opponent’s style, alternating between possession dominance and counter-attacking efficiency.

Match vs DPMM – Possession-Dominant Role

  • Possession: 64% — an unusually high share for PDRM.
  • Passes: 500 total (422 accurate), dictating play in midfield.
  • xG: 3.63 vs 1.53 — created more and higher-quality chances.
  • Reason: Early 0–2 deficit (conceded in 2’ & 6’) forced them to push forward, while DPMM sat in a deep block.
  • Tactical Adjustment: Full-backs pushed high, central midfielders (especially Tae-Soo Park) stepped into advanced positions, resulting in his two goals (68’, 72’).

Here, PDRM looked more like a front-foot, high-possession team, but still relied on direct vertical passes and crosses rather than intricate combination play.

Match vs Terengganu – Counter-Attacking Role

  • Possession: 44% — reverted to a compact 5-4-1 low block.
  • Passes: 358 total (291 accurate), focusing on quick transitions.
  • xG: 1.16 vs 3.37 — created fewer chances but were highly efficient.
  • Goals: Both from Bernard Henri Cedric Doumbia (13’, 53’) in fast transitions.
  • Reason: Terengganu’s high pressing and structured build-up limited PDRM’s ability to keep the ball, forcing them to defend deep and hit on the break.

This was the classic PDRM formula — disciplined defending, soaking pressure, and relying on their striker’s clinical finishing.

2. Strengths

a) Finishing Efficiency

  • Across both matches, PDRM scored 4 goals from 17 shots on target — an excellent conversion rate.
  • Doumbia in particular is ruthless, needing minimal touches to score.

b) Tactical Flexibility

  • Can switch between high-possession build-up (vs DPMM) and low-block countering (vs Terengganu) depending on game state and opposition.
  • This adaptability means they’re not one-dimensional, which is rare for teams in their league position.

c) Key Individuals in Decisive Moments

  • Tae-Soo Park: Goal-scoring midfielder with a late-box arrival threat (2 goals vs DPMM).
  • Doumbia: Target man, finisher, and focal point for both counter and possession play.

d) Goalkeeper Impact

  • Ifwat made 14 saves in two matches, including a crucial penalty save vs DPMM that preserved the draw.

3. Weaknesses

a) Vulnerability in Opening & Closing Phases

  • Early collapses: 2 quick goals conceded vs DPMM in first 6 minutes.
  • Late collapse: Conceded 90’ penalty equaliser vs Terengganu.
  • Concentration lapses at both ends of matches have cost valuable points.

b) High Defensive Error Rate

  • 5 errors leading to shots vs DPMM, 6 vs Terengganu — one of the highest among league sides.
  • Mistakes in clearances and ball-handling under pressure invite unnecessary danger.

c) Struggle Under Sustained Pressure

  • Faced 22 shots in both matches — defensive shape often breaks down if pinned in their half for long periods.

d) Limited Creativity in Open Play

  • Even when dominating possession (DPMM match), chance creation relied heavily on direct balls, wide deliveries, and individual runs — less so on coordinated team build-up.

4. Standout Player: Bernard Henri Cedric Doumbia

Stats over the two matches:

  • 2 goals.
  • Match rating: 9.0 vs Terengganu — best on the pitch.

Strengths:

  • Finishing: Sharp inside the box, converts even half-chances.
  • Pace & Power: Stretches defences in transition, holds off centre-backs.
  • Versatility: Works both as a counter-attacking outlet and as a focal point in possession games.

Doumbia is PDRM’s most important asset.

5. Conclusion

PDRM’s back-to-back draws show they are a chameleon-like side:

  • Vs passive teams (DPMM): They can control possession, push high, and create volume in attack.
  • Vs dominant teams (Terengganu): They can sit deep, defend in numbers, and strike quickly on the break.

Path to improvement:

  1. Reduce defensive errors and early-game complacency.
  2. Maintain concentration in final minutes.
  3. Add another creative outlet to ease the burden on Doumbia and Tae-Soo Park.

If these areas are addressed, PDRM can evolve from a dangerous counter-puncher into a balanced, mid-table contender capable of beating any opponent.

Match Analysis: JDT vs NSFC Away Super League 2025/2026

The match between Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) and Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) was one of the most exciting in recent Super League seasons. For the first time in 4–5 years, a local league opponent managed to score 3 goals against JDT at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium.

This shows that NSFC under Coach Nidzam is no ordinary side this season, they are capable of challenging other teams provided they maintain consistency and not just perform in one big game.

JDT’s Line-up & Early Mistakes

Under new coach Munoz, JDT rotated heavily, resting Arif Aiman and starting Iker Undabarrena, and Nacho as double pivots, with Sidibe and Oscar Aribas as wing-backs. This overconfidence backfired:

  • Within 30 minutes, JDT were 0–2 down.
  • Coach Munoz had to sub Arif Aiman in early and later replace Undabarrena with Afiq Fazail to regain midfield control.

JDT’s Weaknesses

  1. Midfield Protection – Playing two No. 8 types (Undabarrena & Nacho) left no proper defensive midfielder to cover the high back three or advancing wing-backs. NSFC exploited this gap with fast counterattacks and through balls. Loss of players like Natxo Insa and Hong Wan is felt.
  2. Backline Exposure – Park, Irazabal, and Eddy Israfilov are strong in duels but slow to recover against pace, especially when wing-backs are caught high. Poor tracking awareness let NSFC runners get in behind.
  3. Wing-back Recovery – Oscar Aribas and Sidibe pushed too high and were slow to transition into a back five, leaving the back three exposed.
  4. Goalkeeper Inexperience – Abad (18–19 years old) lacked communication and shot-stopping maturity, needing more time at this level.
  5. Attack Chemistry – Figueiredo and Jairo da Silva are individually good but lack combination play. Jairo also missed a penalty badly.

JDT’s Tactical Fix & Comeback

By 27 minutes, Munoz’s changes paid off:

  • Arif Aiman’s introduction transformed the attack, directly influencing goals via corners and open play.
  • Oscar Aribas moved to left wing-back, assisting a Bergson goal.
  • Afiq Fazail stabilized midfield balance.
  • Bergson vs Jairo for the main striker spot is still undecided.
  • Set-pieces (especially corners) are now a strength under Munoz.

NSFC’s Strengths

  • Courage to play openly against JDT, exploiting their high line.
  • Effective build-up from the back through Alex (on loan from Selangor), the creative midfield maestro.
  • Physical, pacy forwards like Esso and direct, clinical striker Jovan Motika (scored twice).
  • Goalkeeper Azri Ghani made several crucial saves.
  • Flexible defensive transitions, with Wai Lin dropping into a back five when needed.

NSFC’s Weaknesses

  • Protecting a lead: struggled to maintain defensive shape after going 2–0 up.
  • Vulnerable to counters once they lose possession high.
  • Drop in right-wing quality when Selvan was substituted.

Detailed Match Analysis

Scoreline & Flow

  • Final score: JDT 5 – 3 NSFC
  • NSFC shocked JDT with two early goals via fast, direct play, but JDT’s tactical switches turned the tide.
  • It was an end-to-end battle with both teams creating high-quality chances.

Tactical Overview

TeamFormation (approx.)ApproachKey Risks
JDT3-4-1-2 (morphed after changes)Possession-heavy, wing-back width, reliance on Arif Aiman’s creativityMidfield gaps, high line vulnerability
NSFC4-3-3Build-up through Alex, quick vertical passes to pacey forwardsDefensive depth after leading, wing defence when Selvan subbed

Key Phases

  1. Early NSFC dominance – Exploited JDT’s unprotected midfield and high defensive line. Jovan Motika’s direct runs were lethal.
  2. Munoz’s intervention – Early subs brought balance and creativity; Arif Aiman became the game-changer.
  3. Set-piece mastery – JDT scored twice from corners, showing a growing weapon under the new coach.
  4. Endgame pressure – NSFC’s inability to defend deep against sustained pressure cost them the result.

Standout Performers

  • JDT – Arif Aiman (match changer), Oscar Aribas (effective at LWB), Afiq Fazail (midfield control)
  • NSFC – Jovan Motika (2 goals), Alex (creative hub), Azri Ghani (crucial saves)

Key Statistics (based on transcript data & inferred trends)

  • Possession: JDT likely >60% after tactical changes.
  • Shots on target: JDT significantly more after Arif’s introduction.
  • Goals from set-pieces: JDT 2, NSFC 0.
  • Counterattack goals: NSFC 2 early in first half.

What This Means Going Forward

  • JDT – Must fix midfield screening and high-line vulnerability before AFC Champions Elite competition; cannot rely solely on Arif Aiman.
  • NSFC – Encouraging attacking display but needs better defensive game management to hold leads against elite opposition.

PIALA FA 25/26: Negeri Sembilan FC Versus PDRM FC Ticket Sales Info

Tickets for the Piala FA 2025–26 match between Negeri Sembilan FC and PDRM FC on 18 August 2025 at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi are now on sale!

Click the link below to purchase:

https://tickethotline.com.my/events/piala-fa-malaysia-2025-2026-negeris-sembilan-fc-vs-pdrm-fc?source=home

Choose Pintu A, Pintu B, or Pintu C sections only for home fans.

Physical Ticket Sales Information – FA Cup 2025 (Round of 16)

🗓️ 14, 15 & 18 August 2025 (Thursday, Friday & Monday)
📍 NSFC Office, Wisma PBNS, Medan Rahang
🕰️ 10.00 AM – 4.00 PM

🗓️ 18 August 2025 (Monday)
📍 Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi
🔄 Grandstand – Counter B & Counter C
🕰️ 5.00 PM – 9.45 PM

Let’s Fill Paroi!

Nidzam: JDT’s Maturity a Real Test, But Positives to Build On

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) head coach Mohd Nidzam Jamil acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) in their 2025/2026 Liga Super opener at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium last night, which ended in a 5-3 defeat for his side.

He described JDT as a side of exceptional maturity and dominance, boasting a high-quality playing style that is difficult to match, particularly when NSFC had taken the lead away from home.

“We had to deal with pressure from a very mature team. They played with quality and high discipline. In several situations, we conceded from set-pieces such as corners, which shows there are weaknesses we need to address,” Nidzam said in the post-match press conference.

Despite the result, he praised his players’ commitment and determination to keep pushing until the final whistle, stressing the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and a relentless approach in attack against any opponent.

“It’s not easy, but we must take the positives and continue improving, especially in tactical organisation and defensive discipline,” he added.

Looking ahead, Nidzam confirmed that NSFC will shift focus to the upcoming FA Cup, with home advantage serving as a crucial factor in their pursuit of victory. He urged supporters to remain patient and continue their backing as the club works toward higher standards.

The match itself was a rollercoaster, with NSFC starting brightly through an 8th-minute opener from Joseph Esso, followed by a quick-fire goal from Jovan Motika in the 12th minute. Motika struck again in the 60th minute, but JDT’s strong response secured them all three points in front of their home fans.

With the season still in its early stages, NSFC remain determined to refine their game and climb the Liga Super standings.

Super League Thriller Ends in 5-3 Victory for JDT Over NSFC

The Super League clash between Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) and Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) treated fans to an electrifying display of attacking football at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium last night.

In a pulsating encounter filled with end-to-end action, the defending champions ultimately secured a 5-3 win, but not without a strong challenge from the spirited visitors.

NSFC stunned the home crowd early when Joseph Esso opened the scoring in the 8th minute, before Jovan Motika doubled the lead just four minutes later.

The two-goal cushion was short-lived, as JDT pulled one back in the 38th minute through a precise header from Jon Irazabal, followed by Joao Figueiredo’s equaliser three minutes later.

The second half began with renewed intensity as Irazabal struck again in the 57th minute, swiftly followed by Ariff Aiman Hanapi’s goal just a minute later to give JDT a commanding lead.

NSFC refused to back down, with Motika netting his second of the match in the 60th minute to keep the contest alive. However, Bergson Da Silva sealed the victory for the Harimau Selatan with an acrobatic effort in stoppage time.

Speaking after the match, JDT head coach Xisco Muñoz praised his team’s fighting spirit despite acknowledging areas for improvement.

“I’m a positive person and will take time to understand this situation with the team. There were mistakes, but we must learn from them and strengthen both our defence and attack for the upcoming matches,” said Xisco.

NSFC head coach Mohd Nidzam Jamil lauded his players’ bravery in taking the game to a heavyweight opponent.

“I hope the players maintain this fearless approach in every match, especially in creating scoring opportunities against stronger sides. It’s not easy, but we must look at the positives and never take elite-level football lightly. Tonight, we learned a lot,” he said.

NSFC will now look to build on this spirited performance as they prepare for their next challenge in the Super League campaign.

Azri, Takumi Gear Up for Stern Test Against Defending Champions JDT

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) goalkeeper Azri Ghani is prepared to deliver his very best as the Hobin Jang Hobin prepare to face the formidable challenge of 11-time consecutive Super League champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium tomorrow night.

The experienced shot-stopper admits last season’s encounters against JDT did not produce favourable results, but he is determined to turn the tide in the 2025–2026 campaign.

“My record against JDT last season wasn’t great. This year, I want to produce a strong performance and help the team compete at 100 percent. We aim to leave the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium with a positive result, InshaAllah,” said Azri, who has represented the Malaysian national team.

Meanwhile, Japanese midfielder Takumi Sasaki is ready to shoulder creative responsibilities in the heart of midfield, determined to unlock JDT’s defence by maximising the attacking strengths of NSFC’s forwards and wingers.

“We have excellent strikers and wingers in the squad. My role is to create opportunities for them, and we work hard to attack and defend together as a team – especially when facing strong opponents like JDT,” he said.

Tomorrow’s clash will serve as a significant early-season test for head coach Nidzam Jamil and his men as they aim to begin their Super League campaign with confidence and resilience against one of the most dominant forces in Malaysian football.

Khuzaimi Confident NSFC Ready for Liga Super Kick-Off Against JDT

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) captain Ahmad Khuzaimi Piee has expressed his confidence that the squad is fully prepared for their Liga Super 2025/2026 opener against 11-time champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) at the Stadium Sultan Ibrahim, Iskandar Puteri, tomorrow night.

The experienced 31-year-old centre-back revealed that NSFC’s pre-season campaign had been encouraging, with a series of positive results in friendly matches helping to build momentum ahead of the new season.

While mindful that pre-season form is no guarantee of victory, Khuzaimi believes the team’s growing confidence and cohesion can translate into a strong performance against formidable opposition.

“Our preparations have gone very well. Every player has shown tremendous confidence and spirit following an intensive training programme. The team fully understands the tactical approach and match strategies outlined by our head coach, Nidzam Jamil,” Khuzaimi stated.

The Melaka-born defender emphasised that the squad will head to Johor with a renewed sense of purpose and determination, aiming to sustain their intensity and focus throughout the full 90 minutes in search of a positive away result.

However, he acknowledged the scale of the challenge ahead, with the Southern Tigers having sent a strong message in their commanding 3-0 victory over Selangor FC in the Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Cup last Friday.

“We know JDT are in top form and will be playing in front of their home crowd. It will be a stern test, but we are ready to give our all to match their intensity and compete at the highest level,” he added.

The clash promises to be an early benchmark for NSFC, as they seek to make a statement and begin their Liga Super campaign on a positive note — even against one of the most dominant forces in Malaysian football.

Watch the interview below:

@nsfc1923

🗣️”Saya berharap semua pemain dapat teruskan momentum sehingga sepak mula menentang JDT.” – Khuzaimi Pie, Kapten Pasukan 🟡⚫️🔴 🎟️ Jualan tiket telah dibuka! Klik pautan di bawah atau di bio untuk pembelian. 🔗 https://tickethotline.com.my/events/liga-super-malaysia-2025-2026-johor-darul-tazim-vs-negeri-sembilan-fc?source=home #JDTNSE #NSFC #HobinJangHobin

♬ original sound – Negeri Sembilan Football Club – Negeri Sembilan Football Club
  1. Pages:
  3. 1
  4. ...
  5. 34
  6. 35
  7. 36
  8. 37
  9. 38
  10. 39