Head coach Negeri Sembilan FC, Nidzam Jamil, praised the high level of commitment and positive mindset shown by his players following their 2-0 victory over Kelantan TRW FC in the Malaysia Super League at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi, on Tuesday night.
The 45-year-old tactician said the win was a clear response to the 1-1 draw against Kuala Lumpur City FC at the same venue last Saturday, with his squad displaying greater fighting spirit and a marked improvement in performance.
“Tonight, the team performed much better compared to the match against KL City four days ago. Even the substitutes such as Anwar Ibrahim, An Sang Su and Harith Samsuri came in and delivered commendable performances,” said Nidzam in his post-match remarks.
He added that the positive momentum carried into the second half allowed Negeri Sembilan to score a crucial second goal, despite Kelantan increasing their intensity in an attempt to disrupt the home side’s dominance.
“They tried to raise their tempo to stop our control of the game, but we defended well and continued to push forward. I’m pleased with this victory because the players executed the game plan exactly as we had prepared,” he said.
National striker Luqman Hakim Shamsudin was the standout performer, netting both goals in the 36th and 49th minutes to secure all three points for the Hobin Jang Hobin side.
Nidzam also explained the late change in the attacking lineup involving Joseph Esso and Mio Tsuneyasu, revealing that Esso was not fully fit to lead the frontline.
According to the head coach, Tsuneyasu’s aggressive approach had an immediate positive impact, unsettling Kelantan’s defence while effectively linking up play with Luqman Hakim and Jovan Motika in attack.
The result underlined Negeri Sembilan FC’s growing confidence and cohesion as they look to build momentum in the second half of the season.
