Tag: interview

Negeri Sembilan Must Capitalise on Early Fan Momentum

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) must be wise in maximising the strong support from fans at the start of the Super League season, ensuring that attendance at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium, Paroi continues to record impressive numbers.

At present, the Hobin Jang Hobin squad is among the few teams in Malaysia that have successfully drawn loyal supporters in large numbers to the stands.

This comes at a time when overall attendance across the Malaysian League has been described as “lacklustre,” with many fans only showing up when their team delivers positive results or displays consistent performances.

Expert Opinion: Strengthen Bonds With Fans

Local football observer, Datuk Dr. Pekan Ramli, believes NSFC has been one of the rare clubs to build early momentum that translates directly into large home crowds.

“The club’s management must take advantage of this moment to strengthen the bond between players and fans. They can also consider organising roadshows across districts, which will encourage more locals to feel connected and show their support. This kind of initiative can further boost stadium attendance,” he told Arena Metro.

Impressive Attendance Figures

For the record, NSFC drew a combined 50,378 spectators across just two home matches — against Selangor FC and Kuching City — a massive improvement compared to previous seasons.

Dr. Pekan added that this surge is also an opportunity for the club to generate commercial revenue beyond ticket sales.

“Besides ticketing, the club should capitalise on merchandise sales. When a team is performing well, fans are willing to spend more on jerseys and other official items. Failing to seize this momentum would mean missing out on a golden financial opportunity,” he said.

Coach Nidzam Pleased With Second-Half Response Against Imigresen FC

Negeri Sembilan FC showed grit and determination in their latest clash against Imigresen FC, with head coach Nidzam Jamil highlighting the team’s improved reaction in the second half as a key positive takeaway.

Reflecting on the match, Nidzam admitted that his side struggled to find their rhythm early on.

“In the first half, we couldn’t connect with the tempo we wanted, and we were punished with a goal that I believe we could have avoided,” he explained.

However, halftime adjustments made a visible impact. The introduction of key changes in midfield allowed NSFC to regain control and create chances, particularly through Mio and Luqman.

“We corrected certain areas, especially in midfield, and managed to generate opportunities. I was happy with the players’ response and their reaction in the second half,” said Nidzam.

The coach also emphasized the importance of mentality and intensity.

“At halftime, I reminded the players about the importance of attitude and playing at the right tempo to move the opposition. We tried to press higher, win second balls, and force Imigresen back. They defended well, but our players showed good effort.”

One standout from the match was young forward Luqman Hakim, who continued his development with another valuable performance.

“Luqman needs games like this to build his temperament and experience. Training is one thing, but real match exposure is different. I’m pleased with his positive attitude, and I believe he can continue contributing to the team whether starting or coming off the bench,” Nidzam added.

While the result may not have fully reflected NSFC’s efforts, the improved second-half display leaves plenty of encouragement for the squad moving forward.

NSFC Seek to Regain Winning Momentum Against Imigresen FC

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) will be aiming to bounce back to winning ways when they take on Imigresen FC in a Malaysia Super League fixture at the Negeri Pulau Pinang Stadium in Batu Kawan tomorrow evening.

Fresh from a disappointing defeat to Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM) FC in the FA Cup Round of 16 in Selayang, the Hobin Jang Hobin squad are determined to deliver a stronger performance in pursuit of their second league victory of the season.

Khuzaimi: “We Need Spirit and Focus”

Team captain Ahmad Khuzaimi Piee expressed hope that his teammates will step onto the pitch with high confidence and fighting spirit to secure a positive result.

“Playing away from home is never easy, but a win is possible if every player executes their responsibilities well. Any weakness or mistake from previous matches must be avoided as it can disrupt our rhythm and overall game plan,” said Khuzaimi.

The former Harimau Malaya defender, who has recovered from his pre-season injury, also stressed the importance of not underestimating their opponents.

“We cannot treat Imigresen FC as just a new team in the league. They have their own strengths and deserve respect. Any lapse in focus could cost us dearly. We need to remain alert to their tactical approach and translate the coach’s instructions into action effectively,” he added.

Respecting the Opponent

Led by head coach Yusri Che Lah, Imigresen FC have shown promise despite being newcomers to the league. Khuzaimi noted that NSFC must prepare thoroughly and maintain discipline to overcome the challenge.

With coach Nidzam Jamil guiding the squad, Negeri Sembilan will look to build on their encouraging league performances so far while learning from recent setbacks, as they continue their quest for consistency in the Super League.

Luis Enrique Nsue: Raising the Bar in Negeri Sembilan’s Defence

Negeri Sembilan’s new defensive mainstay, Luis Enrique Nsue, has wasted no time in making his presence felt in the Super League. The Equatorial Guinea international has emerged as one of the competition’s standout centrebacks – but he believes there is still more work to be done as the team looks to climb higher in the table.

The 27-year-old, capped 10 times for his country, has featured in every match for Negeri this season, starting all three Super League fixtures and two FA Cup ties. His impact has been felt at both ends of the pitch, including a vital headed goal in the 2-2 draw against Kuching City earlier this month.

Beyond the scoreboard, Nsue’s numbers speak volumes. He averages 11 ball recoveries per match, concedes just two successful dribbles per game against him, and records around six clearances per outing. Yet for a player of his calibre, the true measure of success is simple – keeping clean sheets.

Speaking in an interview with The Star ahead of Negeri’s upcoming clash against Immigration FC at Batu Kawan Stadium, Nsue emphasised the team’s preparations:

“We have prepared well this week, knowing that every match is important for our objectives.”

Currently sitting seventh in the standings with four points from three matches, Negeri opened their campaign with a 3-5 defeat to Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) before bouncing back with a 2-1 win over Selangor and a 2-2 draw against Kuching City at Paroi.

While his composure and reading of the game have earned praise, Nsue remains humble and focused.

“Football is like that – when things go well, people praise you. But I always remind the team to be mentally strong when results don’t go our way. We’re not a big club, we’re a small club that’s doing things the right way,” he told The Star.

A key part of Negeri’s defensive unit, Nsue has forged a strong partnership with local defenders Zainal Abidin Jamil and Ahmad Khuzaimi Piee. Still, he acknowledges there is room for growth.

“It’s true that communication can be a little challenging for us, but with time it will improve. I’m delighted to play alongside them – they are very good footballers,” Nsue added in the interview with The Star.

With his leadership, consistency, and hunger for improvement, Luis Enrique Nsue is fast becoming the anchor of Negeri Sembilan’s defence – a presence the team will continue to count on as the season progresses.

Nidzam Jamil: “The Important Thing is We’re Through to the Quarter-Finals”

Negeri Sembilan FC may have suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to PDRM FC in the second leg of the FA Cup Round of 16, but Head Coach Nidzam Jamil was quick to highlight the positives as his side advanced to the quarter-finals with a commanding 5-1 aggregate victory.

Speaking after the match, Nidzam admitted that the game was more open than he had anticipated, with both sides creating opportunities. “I think we were very lucky tonight because the game was really open for both teams. Of course, we came in with the advantage of five goals, but there are certain areas we need to improve. In-game management and tactical discipline must be sharper. We could have avoided conceding corners, we could have handled counter-attacks better, and our defensive structure must be stronger,” he explained.

Despite conceding early in Selayang, Nidzam praised his players for keeping composure and ensuring qualification. “This is the FA Cup – matches like this are never straightforward. The good thing is we made full use of our home advantage in the first leg. Even though we conceded one goal in the return match, the most important thing is that we are through to the quarter-finals,” he added.

When asked about the team’s recent tendency to lose possession in dangerous areas, Nidzam acknowledged it as a concern but remained optimistic about improvement. “Of course it worries me. Our target is always to keep clean sheets, but that requires hard work as a team. We must keep working on how we defend collectively,” he said.

With the Jang advancing to the last eight, Nidzam emphasized that focus now turns to refining performances for the challenges ahead. “We look forward with confidence. The job is not done yet – we must continue to improve,” he concluded.

FA Cup Round of 16 Second Leg Preview: PDRM FC vs Negeri Sembilan FC

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) will head to the Selayang Municipal Council Stadium tomorrow night for the second leg of their FA Cup Round of 16 tie against PDRM FC.

The Jangs carry a commanding advantage after their emphatic 5–0 victory in the first leg at Paroi on August 18. Despite the cushion, head coach Mohd Nidzam Jamil has warned against complacency, stressing that cup competitions are always unpredictable.

“This is the FA Cup. Many things can happen. We must approach the game with the same attitude, identity, and concentration as always. Even with a five-goal lead, it doesn’t mean we go to Selayang half-heartedly,” Nidzam said.

He also revealed that six players were unavailable due to recent international duty, but preparations with the rest of the squad have been positive. “We’ve had good training sessions and some friendlies. I’m happy with the commitment shown. Khuzaimi Piee and Luqman Hakim are recovering well and being closely monitored,” he added.

Right-back Ariff Ar-Rasyid echoed the coach’s sentiment, emphasising that the team’s morale is strong but they cannot afford to underestimate their opponents.

“The team’s spirit and motivation are high, but tomorrow won’t be easy. PDRM have quality players, especially in midfield and attack. Our strength lies in teamwork and understanding, and we aim to finish with a good result,” Ariff said.

NSFC head into this tie on the back of strong recent form, including a 2–1 win over Selangor FC and a 2–2 draw against Kuching City FC in the Super League. Securing progression to the quarterfinals would not only keep their FA Cup run alive but also further strengthen their growing confidence this season.

The Jangs last lifted the FA Cup in 2010 under Wan Jamak Wan Hassan. With momentum building and supporters firmly behind them, the squad is determined to bring back those glory days.

Nidzam Jamil: “No Half Measures Against PDRM”

Ahead of the second-leg FA Cup clash against PDRM FC at the Selayang Municipal Council Stadium, Negeri Sembilan FC head coach Nidzam Jamil stressed that his team will not take their advantage for granted.

“We expected this, because the FA Cup is a very different ball game — full of surprises. If our preparation or mindset is not right, anything can happen,” he said after a team training session.

Negeri Sembilan carries a comfortable lead after their emphatic first-leg victory in Paroi, but Nidzam insists his players must maintain discipline and full focus.

“We will play the way we always do, and we hope our attitude, identity, and concentration will be spot on against PDRM. Even though we have the goal advantage, that doesn’t mean we will come to Selayang with half a heart,” he explained.

For Nidzam, the match is not just about defending the aggregate score, but also about sustaining the team’s performance level.

“We want to ensure our standards don’t drop, because every match is an opportunity for the players to prove their quality,” he added.

With the determined approach laid out by the young coach, Negeri Sembilan fans can once again expect a committed and spirited performance from their beloved squad against PDRM FC.

Watch the interview below:

@nsfc1923

“Ini ialah perlawanan Piala FA. Macam-macam situasi boleh berlaku. Kita akan bermain seperti yang kami tawarkan selalu. Saya harap sikap, identiti dan konsentrasi kita kekal dalam perlawanan malam esok. Walaupun kita memiliki kelebihan gol, itu tidak bermaksud kita akan datang separuh hati ke Selayang.” Nidzam Jamil, Ketua Jurulatih NSFC 🔗 Baca lagi: https://www.nsfc1923.com/news/misi-sahkan-tiket-suku-akhir-di-selayang/

♬ original sound – Negeri Sembilan Football Club – Negeri Sembilan Football Club

NSFC Determined to Defend Advantage Against PDRM in FA Cup Second Leg

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) are determined to protect their commanding advantage when they face Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM) FC in the second leg of the FA Cup Round of 16 at the Selayang Municipal Council Stadium tomorrow night.

The Jangs carry a strong cushion into the tie, following their emphatic 5–0 first-leg victory at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium, Paroi, on August 18. However, defender Zainal Abidin Jamil has stressed the importance of staying focused and not becoming complacent despite the aggregate lead.

“We cannot afford to be too comfortable with a 5–0 advantage because in football, anything can happen. Any mistake during the game could change the outcome,” said the 26-year-old centre-back.

“We must remain cautious throughout the match and avoid errors that could allow the opponent to capitalise. Many may feel we already have one foot in the quarterfinals, but nothing is guaranteed until the final whistle. We have to keep fighting.”

Zainal, who is eager to deliver his best performance if selected by head coach Mohd Nidzam Jamil, added that maintaining momentum will be crucial for NSFC to secure their place in the quarterfinals.

“We need to step onto the pitch with full commitment to ensure our advantage is preserved and that we progress to the next round. This competition means a lot, and it’s been a long time since Negeri Sembilan have gone far in the FA Cup – the last time we lifted the trophy was back in 2010.”

With confidence high after a strong start to the season, NSFC are eyeing another positive result to strengthen their credentials as serious contenders in both league and cup competitions.

Nidzam Admits Late Comebacks Not Planned, But Praises NSFC’s Fighting Spirit

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) head coach, Mohd Nidzam Jamil, admitted that his team’s dramatic late comebacks were never part of the plan, but he was proud of the fighting spirit shown by his players in their 2-2 draw against Kuching City FC in the Super League last night.

The clash at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium, Paroi saw NSFC trail by two goals before mounting a spirited fightback to secure a point. Remarkably, it was the second consecutive match where the Hobin Jang Hobin squad staged a late turnaround at home, following their 2-1 victory over Selangor FC the previous weekend.

“No coach wants to always chase the game – to concede one or two goals and then fight back. That’s not something we plan for. What matters is that we learn to manage games better,” said Nidzam during the post-match press conference.

The 45-year-old coach explained that NSFC had to take risks in pursuit of goals, leaving space behind that made them vulnerable to counterattacks.

“When we go all out for a goal, of course there are risks. But I was pleased with how our goalkeeper and defenders handled the pressure in the second half. We still need to tighten our defensive structure, but overall I’m happy we managed to get something out of the game,” he added.

Despite settling for a draw, Nidzam described the result as valuable, especially in maintaining the team’s positive momentum and confidence.

“This is part of the team-building process. We’re still learning, still growing, and one point is important for us. The players showed determination, and that’s what we must carry into future matches,” he said.

With the 2-2 result against Kuching City, NSFC now have four points from three matches, following one win, one draw, and one defeat.

CEO’s Statement on Club Development and Upcoming Initiatives

Negeri Sembilan FC CEO, Faliq Firdaus, expressed his gratitude to supporters, highlighting their unwavering loyalty as the driving force behind the club’s continued growth.

“Thank you. You were simply amazing,” Faliq said, acknowledging the passionate backing of the Jang faithful. “Because of Sekalian Yang Setia, the final quarter of 2025 and the early months of 2026 promise to be an exciting period for the club.”

He revealed several key initiatives already in motion:

  • Training Centre – Development will be accelerated to provide the squad with world-class facilities.
  • Fundraising Dinner – Scheduled for October, aimed at strengthening the club’s financial foundation.
  • Enhanced Matchday Experience – Fans can look forward to new activations and entertainment, particularly during major fixtures.

Faliq also provided updates on the club’s official Warrix jerseys, which will be available in three editions — Player Issue, Replica Issue, and Fan Issue. The Fan Issue will be priced affordably, below RM100, to ensure wider accessibility for supporters. In addition, kids’ jerseys are expected to be released by September.

These steps are part of Negeri Sembilan FC commitment to the fans — making sure they feel valued, connected, and proud to be part of Negeri Sembilan FC.