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.