Negeri Sembilan FC head coach, Mohd Nidzam Jamil, expressed mixed emotions after his side fell 2-1 to Penang FC at Stadium Bandaraya, noting that while the team began confidently, they struggled to regain control after conceding early.

“We started well in the first 10 minutes and it looked like we could do something. But after we conceded that first goal, maybe there was a bit of panic or we weren’t fully ready mentally. It happens sometimes,” Nidzam admitted.

He acknowledged Penang FC’s strong defensive organization and discipline throughout the match, which limited Negeri Sembilan’s attacking rhythm.

“Penang defended well. We have to fix this. These things need to be resolved, not just let them happen repeatedly,” he said.

Nidzam added that the team showed more urgency after the break, making attacking adjustments to push for an equaliser. However, an early second-half goal from Penang shifted the game’s momentum once again.

“We tried to come back in the second half, bringing in more attacking players. We had control of the game for a while, but conceding right after the restart changed the whole rhythm of the match,” he explained.

Despite the defeat, the coach remained composed and optimistic, urging his players to stay focused and improve both mentally and tactically ahead of their next challenge.

“We should have finished with at least a draw, but there are a few things we need to improve — some within our control, some not. Either way, we have to be better,” Nidzam concluded.

Negeri Sembilan FC will now regroup as they prepare for their crucial FA Cup quarter-final clash against Selangor FC at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi.