Better Days Ahead at STAR as RM5 Million Upgrade Project Begins

The Negeri Sembilan State Government is currently undertaking comprehensive upgrading works at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman (STAR), involving several key components aimed at enhancing spectator comfort and overall stadium facilities.

According to Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Utama Haji Aminuddin Harun, the upgrade works include a full repainting of the stadium, refurbishment of players’ dressing rooms, and the installation of new floodlights. The project is expected to be completed within six months.

“The estimated total cost of this upgrade project is around RM5 million, including the floodlight installation, and we hope all works can be completed according to the scheduled timeline,” he said during a post-State Executive Council (Exco) meeting press conference.

Addressing concerns over ticket pricing, Aminuddin clarified that the ongoing stadium upgrades will not have any impact on existing match ticket prices.

On team performance matters, the State Government has also increased its allocation to Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) to facilitate the recruitment of several new players that had previously been approved.

While acknowledging that the team’s performances have yet to reach consistent levels, Aminuddin expressed hope that the club’s management and coaching staff will place full focus on preparations—particularly for home matches—in order to achieve more positive results.

“We place our trust in the management to run the team without excessive interference, but we also expect returns that are worthy of the state and our supporters,” he added.

Aminuddin also noted that pressure from supporters and reactions on social media are a normal part of football. As such, the responsibility must be shouldered collectively by the management, coaches, and players as part of a united organisation.

According to him, the most crucial aspect at this stage is the players’ spirit and commitment on the pitch. Wins and losses are part and parcel of competition, but supporters demand visible effort, discipline, and fighting spirit in every match.

“Supporters can accept results, but commitment is the most important factor—and at the moment, we are still not at the level we aspire to reach,” he concluded.

Ridzuan Abu Shah Confirms Wan Kuzri Loan Move to UM-Damansara United FC

UM-Damansara United FC head coach Ridzuan Abu Shah has confirmed the arrival of young midfielder Wan Kuzri, who has joined the club on loan from Negeri Sembilan FC.

Speaking on the move, Ridzuan officially welcomed the player and explained that the loan agreement was finalised through discussions between UM-Damansara United FC’s management and Negeri Sembilan FC, with a clear emphasis on the player’s long-term development.

“Welcome Wan Kuzri to UM-Damansara United FC,” said Ridzuan. “He is a good player, still young, and this opportunity will allow him to gain valuable experience. From our side, we already have a place and a role prepared for him within the team.”

Wan Kuzri has been loaned to UM-Damansara United FC to help him adapt to the demands and intensity of Liga Malaysia, giving him regular competitive exposure before returning to Negeri Sembilan FC next season in a more prepared and confident condition.

The move is viewed as a positive step for all parties involved, providing Wan Kuzri with an ideal platform to accelerate his development, while UM-Damansara United FC gain a promising young talent eager to contribute within a competitive league environment.

This loan spell is expected to play an important role in Wan Kuzri’s progression, with the experience gained set to benefit both the player and Negeri Sembilan FC in the seasons ahead.

Piala Tuanku 2026: Goals, Grit and a Final Showdown Await

The Piala Tuanku 2026 has continued to celebrate the strength of grassroots football in Negeri Sembilan, delivering competitive matches, decisive moments and standout individual performances. From the opening weeks to the semi-final stage, the tournament has produced goals and drama that underline its growing prestige.

Weeks One and Two: Early Momentum Set

The opening two matchweeks saw Seremban and Port Dickson emerge as the early frontrunners, with both teams securing back-to-back victories.

  • Seremban 2–0 Rembau
    M. Bilal Benyamin (12’), M. Hakim Hafie (45’)
  • Port Dickson 3–1 Kuala Pilah
    Putra Daniel (6’), Fakhri Haidhar (45+1’), Ammar Irham (49’)
    Kuala Pilah scorer: Iskandar Izuan (37’)

These results highlighted strong attacking intent from both sides as they collected maximum points in the early phase.

Week Three: Competitive Battles Continue

The third week of action brought further intensity as teams pushed for position heading into the knockout rounds.

  • Jelebu 2–1 Tampin
    Nik Norfarez (61’), Hasanuddin A. Hadi (68’)
    Tampin scorer: Aisy Marzuq (17’)
  • Tampin 1–0 Kuala Pilah
    Hazwan Haziq (88’)
  • Rembau 2–0 Jempol
    Aqil Rozadi (21’), Aliff Mukhriz (89’)
  • Tampin 0–6 Port Dickson
    Adib Fahri (14’, 27’), Fakhri Haidhar (pen) (19’), Hadi Firdaus (78’), Adil Afdhal (81’), Ahmad Amar Shah (90+1’)

Port Dickson’s emphatic win further underlined their attacking strength, while Rembau and Jelebu showed resilience with important victories.

Semi-Finals: Finalists Decided

Two semi-final matches were contested yesterday afternoon, producing high-quality football and decisive moments.

  • Seremban 1–2 Kuala Pilah
    Seremban scorer: Bilal Benyamin (49’)
    Kuala Pilah scorers: Amirul Aiman (47’), Khairul Akhmal (78’)
  • Port Dickson 1–0 Rembau
    Fakhri Haidhar (15’)

With these results, Kuala Pilah and Port Dickson booked their places in the final after composed and disciplined performances.

All Eyes on the Final

The Piala Tuanku 2026 Final is scheduled to take place on 31 January 2026 at the Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi, where Kuala Pilah and Port Dickson will meet in a highly anticipated showdown.

Congratulations to Kuala Pilah and Port Dickson on reaching the final, and commendations to all participating teams for their commitment and contributions throughout the tournament.

The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to Piala Tuanku 2026.

NextGen Development Camp 1.0: Shaping the Future of Negeri Sembilan Football

The NextGen Development Camp 1.0 officially kicked off last Saturday, marking an important milestone in Negeri Sembilan FC’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of football talent. The inaugural camp brought together 27 promising players, featuring an international dimension with participants from the Philippines, Canada, and Korea, underscoring the programme’s growing regional and global appeal.

Led by Technical Director Efendi Abd Malek, the camp is designed to provide participants with real exposure to professional football training modules. Beyond technical and tactical development, strong emphasis is placed on maintaining elite levels of fitness, discipline, and performance consistency, mirroring the demands of the professional game.

The intensive programme is delivered by a highly experienced coaching lineup comprising Norhafiz Zamani, Shahurain Abu Samah, Khairal Afiq, Jalil Man, Hamdan Mohamad, Masmal Hadi, and Sany Fahmi. Together, the coaching team ensures a structured, high-intensity environment that challenges players both physically and mentally, while reinforcing modern football principles aligned with the club’s long-term vision.

More than just a training camp, NextGen Development Camp 1.0 serves as a strategic development platform—bridging raw potential with professional readiness. It reflects Negeri Sembilan FC’s clear pathway for young talents to progress to the next level, while strengthening the club’s football ecosystem through education, exposure, and elite preparation.

As the camp continues, it stands as a testament to Negeri Sembilan FC’s belief that the future of the club is built today—through structured development, quality coaching, and unwavering commitment to youth excellence.

Piala Malaysia 2025/26: Negeri Sembilan FC Versus Imigresen FC Ticket Sales Info

Tickets for the Piala Malaysia 2025-26 match between Negeri Sembilan FC and Imigresen FC on 25 January 2026 at the at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi are now on sale!

Click the link below to purchase:

https://tickethotline.com.my/events/NSEVSIMI

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

Tickets are now available at the following locations:

🏢 Wisma PBNS
📅 20–23 January 2026
(Daily except weekends and public holidays)
🕙 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Break: 1:00–2:00 PM | Friday: 12:00–2:45 PM

🏟️ STAR Paroi
🛍️ Warrix Matchday Store
• 23 January 2026 (2:45 PM – 5:00 PM)
• 24 January 2026 (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
• 25 January 2026 (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

🎫 Ticket Counter 13
📆 25 January 2026
🕔 5:00 PM – 9:45 PM

ℹ️ Tickets for away supporters will be sold online only.

The Missing Spark: Assessing the Impact of Jovan Motika’s Absence on Negeri Sembilan FC

Negeri Sembilan FC’s recent performances have underlined a growing sense of what the team is missing without Jovan Motika on the pitch. While opinions were once divided over his tendency to carry the ball, his absence has revealed the true value he brought to the attacking unit—energy, unpredictability, and a decisive attacking spark.

When Motika featured regularly, there were frequent discussions about his ball retention and willingness to take responsibility in possession. Yet those same qualities allowed Negeri Sembilan to sustain attacks, relieve pressure, and commit defenders. Without him, the team’s forward play has often appeared flatter, with fewer moments capable of unsettling opposition back lines.

Motika’s profile is that of a fearless winger—direct, aggressive, and constantly looking to attack space. He thrives on driving at defenders, making blind-side runs, and stretching the pitch both vertically and horizontally. These movements create openings not only for himself but also for teammates arriving from deeper areas. Even when he did not score or assist, his presence alone altered defensive structures.

In many ways, his impact mirrors that of a high-intensity wide attacker who may not always dominate headlines, but whose influence is deeply felt within the team dynamic. The level may differ, but the effect is comparable: remove that type of winger, and the entire attacking rhythm changes. Negeri Sembilan are now experiencing that reality.

Since Motika’s absence, there has been a noticeable reduction in spontaneity and penetration in wide areas. The team still works hard and remains organised, but the element of surprise—the sudden burst, the daring dribble, the unexpected run—has been harder to find. Opponents are able to defend with greater comfort, knowing there is less threat of being isolated one-on-one on the flanks.

This period has highlighted an important lesson: footballing value is not always measured solely by statistics. Motika’s contribution lies in momentum, belief, and intent—qualities that lift a team’s attacking identity. It is no surprise that supporters and observers alike are beginning to feel his absence more keenly.

As Negeri Sembilan FC continue their campaign, the challenge will be to rediscover that attacking spark—whether through tactical adjustments, emerging players, or eventually welcoming back a profile that brings similar courage and versatility. For now, one thing is clear: Jovan Motika’s influence was greater than it may once have seemed, and his absence has left a noticeable void in the team’s attacking play.

Wan Kuzri Wan Kamal Linked With Negeri Sembilan FC Move

Negeri Sembilan FC are reportedly closing in on the signing of Malaysian youngster Wan Kuzri Wan Kamal, with multiple sources suggesting the player has already put pen to paper with the Jang squad.

According to Zulhelmi Zainal Azam, a Sports Journalist with Astro Arena, Wan Kuzri — who previously spent time in the United States — is understood to have signed a contract with Negeri Sembilan FC. The update was shared via social media and has since gained traction among local football followers.

The report is further supported by Harimau Abroad, which stated that Wan Kuzri most recently featured for Akron City in the USL League Two, highlighting his overseas exposure and development pathway.

Wan Kuzri is not an unfamiliar name within the national football setup. He has previously been called up to Malaysia’s Under-19 training camp, underlining his potential and placing him among the promising talents of his age group. A return from the United States to the domestic scene would represent a significant step in his professional progression.

At this stage, the move remains unofficial, with the club yet to issue a formal announcement. As per standard protocol, supporters are advised to await confirmation from Negeri Sembilan FC through its official communication channels.

Should the signing be finalised, Wan Kuzri’s arrival would add youthful energy and depth to the Jang squad, reinforcing the club’s continued focus on long-term development and talent building ahead of the upcoming challenges.

Match Analysis: Selangor FC 1–0 Negeri Sembilan FC

Selangor FC continued their positive momentum in the Malaysia Super League with a narrow 1–0 victory over Negeri Sembilan FC, a result that underlined their growing tactical clarity while once again highlighting Negeri Sembilan’s attacking struggles despite a disciplined defensive display.

The decisive moment came from a set-piece situation, as Selangor capitalised on a corner kick to secure all three points. It marked another win under head coach Kim Pan-gon, pushing Selangor further up the table and strengthening their ambitions of finishing in the AFC qualification positions.

Selangor FC: Clear Structure, Strong Control, Missing Final Touch

From a tactical perspective, Selangor showed a well-defined game plan. Their primary attacking approach revolved around exploiting wide areas, consistently breaking through the flanks before delivering crosses or cut-backs into the penalty box. Each attacking phase was well-supported, with two to three players flooding the box to offer targets — most notably Chrigor Moraes, supported by wide and half-space runners such as Faisal Halim and Nooa Laine.

Selangor’s midfield structure was a key strength. During build-up phases, one midfielder dropped deeper to support circulation, allowing the remaining midfielders to operate higher between the lines. This created numerical superiority in central areas and ensured constant passing options for the wingers. The fluidity of their short combinations and one-touch passes enabled Selangor to repeatedly penetrate Negeri Sembilan’s defensive block.

However, while Selangor executed their attacking patterns effectively, the final product remained the missing element. Numerous promising moves failed to translate into goals from open play, largely due to last-pass execution and finishing. On another day, the volume and quality of chances created could easily have resulted in a more emphatic scoreline.

Defensively, Selangor were equally impressive. They maintained a compact shape, limited transition opportunities, and recorded a valuable clean sheet — an important achievement against a side known earlier in the season for its counter-attacking threat.

Negeri Sembilan FC: Defensive Discipline, Attacking Identity in Question

Negeri Sembilan once again demonstrated resilience at the back. Their low defensive block was organised and reactive, with defenders reading crosses and cut-backs effectively. Goalkeeper Azri Ghani delivered a strong performance, making several crucial saves and commanding his area well under pressure.

Despite this defensive solidity, Negeri Sembilan’s attacking output was notably limited. Counter-attacking opportunities were rare and often broke down due to the lack of creative link-up between midfield and attack. Key forwards were effectively neutralised, and central areas lacked the creative spark required to unlock Selangor’s defence.

The absence of a natural playmaker was evident. Ball progression from midfield lacked incision, and there were few penetrative passes capable of releasing runners into space. As a result, attacking transitions were predictable and easily contained.

One of the brighter aspects for Negeri Sembilan was the performance on the right side, where defensive recovery runs and positional discipline helped limit Selangor’s most dangerous wide threats. There were glimpses of potential on the counter, but these moments were isolated rather than sustained.

Key Takeaways

  • Selangor FC showed tactical maturity, dominance in wide areas, and strong midfield balance, but must improve their finishing to fully capitalise on their control.
  • Negeri Sembilan FC displayed commendable defensive organisation but continue to struggle with attacking cohesion and creativity.
  • The fine margins of the match ultimately favoured Selangor, whose consistency and structure proved decisive.

As the season progresses, Selangor appear to be building a clear identity under their new leadership, while Negeri Sembilan face a crucial need to redefine their attacking approach if they are to turn narrow defeats into positive results.

Nidzam Jamil Praises Discipline and Defensive Growth After Goalless Draw in Penang

Nidzam Jamil expressed satisfaction with Negeri Sembilan FC’s defensive organisation and game management after holding Imigresen FC to a 0–0 draw in the first leg of their Round of 16 clash in the Piala Malaysia 2025–26.

The encounter, played at Stadium Negeri Pulau Pinang on 17 January, saw Negeri Sembilan FC adopt a measured and disciplined approach away from home against a dangerous Imigresen FC side, prioritising structure and game control amid a demanding run of fixtures.

Speaking after the match, Nidzam stressed the importance of understanding the dynamics of two-legged cup competitions, referencing previous lessons where opportunities at home were not fully maximised. This time, the emphasis was clear: remain compact away from home and set the stage for a decisive second leg in Seremban.

“This is a cup competition. You must know how to manage the first game away and the second game at home,” said Nidzam. “We respected Imigresen FC and their attacking threats. They have players who can hurt you if you lose focus. From that perspective, a goalless draw is a fair and positive result.”

The head coach also highlighted the physical demands faced by his squad, revealing that five to six changes were made to the starting line-up due to a congested schedule of three matches in seven days. Fatigue played a key role in the tactical approach, with Negeri Sembilan opting to sit in a compact mid-block rather than applying constant high pressure.

Despite the absence of goals, Nidzam pointed to several encouraging signs. Negeri Sembilan created chances, hit the woodwork twice, and limited Imigresen FC’s opportunities, with goalkeeper Aqil producing a composed performance to secure a valuable clean sheet.

“We didn’t concede, and that’s something important,” he said. “Our defensive shape was good. This is also one of the few matches where Imigresen didn’t score, and that shows our discipline.”

Nidzam also praised the performances of squad players, singling out Amirul Adli for his contribution, as well as Mio Tsuneyasu, who was handed a starting role. He emphasised the importance of rotation and squad depth during a physically demanding period, while acknowledging that some players were carrying heavy workloads following recent league fixtures.

Addressing questions over the team’s attacking output, Nidzam remained confident that the goals will return, stressing that attacking success is a collective responsibility rather than solely on the strikers.

“Attack as a team, defend as a team. We’ve scored more than 20 goals in the league,” he explained. “Just because we didn’t score in the last few games doesn’t mean we are weak. What’s important is that defensively, we are improving.”

He concluded by reaffirming his focus on player recovery, injury assessments, and preparation for the second leg, where Negeri Sembilan FC will look to capitalise on home advantage and progress to the next round.

Goalless Draw Leaves Malaysia Cup Tie Wide Open

Negeri Sembilan FC were held to a 0–0 draw by Imigresen FC in the first-leg encounter of the Malaysia Cup at Stadium Negeri Pulau Pinang earlier today.

Nicknamed The Jangs, Negeri Sembilan entered the match as favourites and asserted control from the opening whistle. The visitors dominated possession and created a series of attacking moves through Takumi Sasaki, Khuzaimi Piee, Joseph Esso and Mio Tsuneyasu, but were unable to find a way past the disciplined home defence.

Imigresen nearly stunned the visitors when Wilmar Jordan Gil found the back of the net in the 38th minute. However, celebrations were cut short after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review ruled the effort out for offside.

The hosts came close again after the break, with Fadzrul Danel Nizam testing Negeri Sembilan goalkeeper Muhammad Aqil Abd Razak in the 63rd minute. Aqil reacted superbly to push the low drive away and keep his side level.

Negeri Sembilan responded by raising the tempo in the final 20 minutes, introducing substitutes N. Javabilaarivin and Oday Kharoub in search of a breakthrough. Despite sustained pressure, the decisive goal remained elusive.

Imigresen also endured moments of misfortune, with Elvis Kamsoba seeing his boot come off during a goal attempt, while Eduardo Sosa was forced off after reportedly suffering a rib injury.

The scoreline remained unchanged until the final whistle, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of the return leg at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman on 25 January.