As 2025 comes to a close, Negeri Sembilan FC can look back on a year marked by improvement, unity, and renewed belief both on and off the pitch. After a difficult previous campaign, the club showed clear signs of progress, rekindling pride among players, staff, and supporters.
Senior Team: Stronger and More Competitive
The senior men’s team enjoyed a positive turnaround in 2025. Following a 12th-place finish the season before, Negeri Sembilan FC climbed into the top half of the Malaysia Super League, ending the year in 6th place. The improvement reflected better consistency, stronger squad depth, and a more disciplined approach throughout the season.
In cup competitions, the team also made its presence felt. Negeri Sembilan reached the quarter-finals of the Malaysia FA Cup, highlighted by a dominant 5–0 first-leg victory over PDRM FC in the Round of 16. Although the journey ended against Selangor FC, the team showed character, including a memorable 3–2 away win in the second leg. In the Malaysia Cup, the squad competed with determination, laying the foundation for continued progress into 2026.
Memorable Moments and Key Players
One of the most emotional moments of the season came at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi, in August, when Negeri Sembilan staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Selangor FC 2–1. A late equaliser followed by a stoppage-time winner sent over 25,000 fans into celebration, creating one of the most unforgettable nights of the year.
Several players played key roles throughout the season. Jovan Motika emerged as a major attacking threat, while Joseph Esso contributed important goals in both league and cup matches. Local players also stepped up, supported by experienced figures such as Ahmad Khuzaimi Piee at the back. Young goalkeeper Syahmi Adib gained valuable exposure at club and international level, while new signings added depth and competition across the squad.
The arrival of Luqman Hakim Shamsudin added excitement to the fanbase, symbolising the club’s commitment to building a competitive and youthful team. Together, the squad showed strong unity, resilience, and fighting spirit, particularly in tight matches and comeback performances.
Youth Development: Building for the Future
Negeri Sembilan FC’s youth system delivered encouraging results in 2025. The U-12 team achieved international success by winning the SingaCup in Singapore, defeating Bali United’s academy in the final. The triumph highlighted the quality of the club’s grassroots development and coaching structure.
The club also strengthened its youth setup by appointing former Negeri Sembilan legends Norhafiz Zamani Misbah and Azmi Mohamed as academy coaches. Under their guidance, youth teams showed clear improvement, with several young players earning opportunities to train with the senior squad. These developments underline the club’s long-term focus on producing home-grown talent.
Leadership, Fans, and Infrastructure
Off the pitch, 2025 was a year of important progress. A new leadership structure was formed with the appointment of Negeri Sembilan Chief Minister Dato’ Seri Utama Aminuddin Harun as club chairman. Together with CEO Faliq Firdaus and head coach Nidzam Jamil, the club adopted a clearer long-term vision focused on stability, professionalism, and sustainability.
Supporter engagement reached new heights as attendances at Stadium Paroi increased significantly. Several home matches were played in front of packed crowds, generating strong matchday revenue and restoring the stadium’s reputation as a fortress. Initiatives such as the #KuningkanParoi campaign further strengthened the bond between the club and its supporters.
Infrastructure development also moved forward. Plans for upgrades at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman were confirmed, while the Mantin Training Centre project advanced steadily. Once completed, the new training facility will serve as a major step forward for the club’s daily operations, player development, and long-term ambitions.
Looking Ahead
Overall, 2025 marked a turning point for Negeri Sembilan FC. The team became more competitive, the youth system delivered tangible success, supporters returned in force, and long-term projects began to take shape. While there is still work to be done, the foundations have been laid.
With unity on and off the pitch, Negeri Sembilan FC heads into the new year with confidence, determination, and renewed hope. Hobin Jang Hobin.
