Negeri Sembilan FC wrapped up the final match of the first round of the Malaysia Super League on a high, securing a convincing 2–0 victory over Kelantan TRW FC at the Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman earlier today.
Forward Luqman Hakim Shamsudin emerged as the hero for the Hobin Jang Hobin side, scoring both goals to deliver the team’s fourth win of the season.
The rescheduled fixture—originally set to be played in Kota Bharu but moved due to weather conditions—was fully capitalised on by Negeri Sembilan, who claimed all three points for the first time since their 2–0 home win over PDRM FC on 25 October.
From the opening whistle, both teams showed attacking intent, trading early pressure in an open and energetic contest. Head coach Nidzam Jamil opted to start Japanese forward Mio Tsuneyasu, usually deployed as a super-sub, while resting Joseph Esso. The decision paid dividends, with Mio playing a proactive role up front and helping to create several promising moves, particularly in the opening 30 minutes.
Negeri Sembilan’s determination was rewarded in the 36th minute when Luqman Hakim latched onto a perfectly weighted through ball from Jovan Motika, calmly slotting past Kelantan goalkeeper Azfar Arif Mohd Shukri to give the home side the lead.
The goal further lifted the spirits of the Rusa squad, who continued to press and dominate proceedings until the interval.
Early in the second half, Negeri Sembilan doubled their advantage. A defensive lapse saw Azfar Arif fail to clear the ball outside his penalty area, allowing Luqman Hakim to pounce, race through on goal, and tap home his second of the night in the 49th minute.
Despite trailing, Kelantan—led by head coach Akmal Rizal Ahmad Rakhli—pushed forward in search of a response, carving out several chances. However, they were unable to find a breakthrough as Negeri Sembilan’s defence held firm until the final whistle.
The victory delighted the 3,205 supporters in attendance, as Negeri Sembilan FC closed the first round of the season with renewed confidence and momentum.