Tag: post match

Nidzam Jamil Praises Collective Effort as Negeri Sembilan FC Advance to Malaysia Cup Quarter-Finals

Negeri Sembilan FC Head Coach Nidzam Jamil commended his players’ discipline, resilience, and collective commitment after guiding the team into the quarter-finals of the Malaysia Cup following the second-leg Round of 16 clash against Imigresen FC at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman on 25 January.

Speaking during the post-match press conference for the Malaysia Cup 2025–26 Round of 16 (Second Leg), Nidzam described the contest as a true cup battle, marked by intensity, tactical adjustments, and mental toughness from both sides.

“It was an open game. In the first half, there were many transitions, and in the second half, Imigresen became more direct and more physical after introducing fresh players. We had to compete and match their intensity,” said Nidzam.

He highlighted the team’s defensive organisation, particularly in the final 20 minutes, as a decisive factor in securing qualification. Imigresen FC arrived in strong attacking form, having scored 17 goals in their previous 10 matches, underlining the scale of the challenge faced by Negeri Sembilan FC.

“Our organisation, especially when defending late in the game, was very good. Against a team like Imigresen, that discipline is extremely important,” he added.

Nidzam also explained that certain late tactical decisions involved calculated risks, including fielding players who were still recovering from minor knocks. Despite the risk, he felt the decisions were necessary in the context of knockout football.

“This is a cup game. The most important thing is qualification. Sometimes you need to take a gamble, and tonight it paid off,” he said.

Addressing squad selection, Nidzam noted that several players were unavailable due to injuries and foreign player quota limitations. However, he reiterated that the team’s progress was built on squad depth and collective responsibility rather than individual reliance.

One of the notable moments from the match was the introduction of 22-year-old Afiq Fitri, who made his first appearance of the season in a high-pressure situation. Coming on in the final stages, Afiq showed maturity beyond his years, winning second balls and contributing defensively.

“He trained very hard every day. It’s not easy to come into a tight game during the last 10 minutes and handle that pressure. I’m very happy with his commitment and performance,” Nidzam said.

Looking ahead to the quarter-finals, Nidzam acknowledged that Negeri Sembilan FC will face one of the strongest teams in Malaysian football. Nevertheless, he embraced the underdog status and the unpredictability that defines the Malaysia Cup.

“We are still underdogs. But this is cup football — anything can happen. With hard work, commitment, and the support of our fans, we believe we can compete,” he concluded.

Negeri Sembilan FC now advance to the last eight of the Malaysia Cup with renewed confidence, built on teamwork, discipline, and belief in the strength of the entire squad.

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.

Nidzam Jamil: Second-Half Improvement Clear, But Set-Piece Discipline Must Improve

Petaling Jaya, 14 January 2026 — Negeri Sembilan FC head coach Nidzam Jamil acknowledged a clear contrast between the two halves of his side’s performance following the 1–0 defeat to Selangor FC in the Malaysia Super League clash at Stadium MBPJ.

Speaking at the post-match press conference after LS16 of the Liga Super Malaysia 2025–26, Nidzam highlighted defensive issues in the first half—particularly in central areas and wide channels—that allowed Selangor to create problems through rotations and overloads.

“In the first half, defensively we couldn’t fully solve the problems they created, especially in midfield and the wide areas. When we pressed or shifted across, spaces opened up,” he explained.

However, the Negeri Sembilan coach praised his players for responding positively after the break, noting that the team managed those issues more effectively in the second half and showed better structure and control.

“In the second half, we managed the problems much better. You could see the improvement in how we dealt with their movement and pressure.”

Set-Piece Management a Deciding Factor

Despite the improved second-half showing, Nidzam was candid in admitting that set-piece defending proved costly, pointing to poor organisation and delivery as the key difference between the two sides.

“The difference came down to set pieces. We need to improve how we manage these situations. Conceding from set pieces is something we must address seriously.”

He also expressed concern over the number of corners conceded, stressing that allowing Selangor to win around 12 corners placed unnecessary pressure on his side.

Squad Challenges and Physical Demands

Nidzam also revealed that squad availability and physical fatigue played a role in shaping the match. Several key players were unavailable or only confirmed late, forcing last-minute adjustments to the lineup.

“We had issues with availability. Some players were not fit to play, and we only finalised certain replacements at the last moment. The previous match was very intense—many of our players covered over 11 to 12 kilometres—which made it difficult to maintain the same momentum.”

With another match coming up in just two to three days, the coaching staff attempted to inject fresh energy in the second half through substitutions, bringing on players such as Adeli and others in search of an equaliser.

Positive Intent, Fine Margins

Despite facing a strong opponent with greater resources, Nidzam was clear that Negeri Sembilan did not travel to Petaling Jaya merely to defend.

“We came here to play our normal game, not just to sit back. In the second half, we showed that intent and created a few chances, even if they weren’t many.”

He concluded by reiterating that while Selangor’s quality and investment were evident, the margins were fine—and discipline, particularly in dead-ball situations, must improve moving forward.

Nidzam Jamil: “We Must Learn to Close Games at This Level”

Head coach Nidzam Jamil admitted that fine margins and sustained concentration were the key differences following Negeri Sembilan FC’s narrow defeat to Johor Darul Ta’zim in the Liga Super 2025–26 clash at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman on 9 January.

Speaking during the post-match press conference, Nidzam stressed that elite-level football demands unwavering focus from the first minute to the very last.

“At the top level, football requires full concentration from minute to minute. At the moment, that is the difference between us and JDT,” he said.

The Negeri Sembilan head coach acknowledged JDT’s maturity and ability to maintain intensity throughout the match, even deep into stoppage time.

“They have gone through this process before. Their development is very good. Even after 90 minutes, they are still able to keep the same intensity and take risks in attack.”

Focus, Not the Clock

Addressing questions over extended stoppage time and the late goal conceded, Nidzam was clear that the core issue was not the number of added minutes, but game management and focus.

“This is not about whether it was nine, ten or twelve minutes. The issue is focus. We cannot control the clock or the atmosphere. What we can control is how we play and how we close the game.”

He added that Negeri Sembilan had managed to stay competitive until the closing moments, but failed to kill the game when the opportunity arose.

“We controlled the match until the 96th or 97th minute. But in football, if you don’t manage the small details, you will be punished. Two or three minutes earlier, we could have slowed the game down and closed it better.”

A Valuable Lesson Against the Best

Despite the disappointment, Nidzam viewed the encounter as an important learning experience for his squad.

“This is the second time we’ve conceded very late, and that means we have to learn how to become ‘big men’ in this league. These are lessons you learn when facing teams like JDT.”

He also praised his players’ commitment and effort against an opponent with depth and quality across the pitch.

“In terms of commitment, I have no issue at all. The players worked hard. But JDT’s quality and the tempo they maintain for 90 minutes is what really tests us.”

Nidzam concluded by reiterating that growth at this level comes through experience, discipline, and the ability to manage crucial moments.

“This is football. These lessons will shape us moving forward.”

Nidzam Jamil Hails Commitment and Positive Attitude After Convincing Win Over Kelantan

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.

Faliq Firdaus: “We’re Not Fully Satisfied, Improvements Are Already in Motion”

Negeri Sembilan FC chief executive officer Faliq Firdaus has reiterated the club’s firm ambition to compete at a higher level, despite salvaging a late result against Kuala Lumpur FC in the recent Malaysia Super League fixture.

Speaking to OhMedia after the match, Faliq admitted that while the team managed to recover in the closing stages, the overall feeling within the club was one of dissatisfaction.

“Honestly, we are not satisfied. We came into the match with a winning mentality,” he said. “As management, our mindset is always to win. But given the circumstances, we had to accept the result — even though it wasn’t what we truly wanted.”

Clear Standards and Honest Self-Assessment

Faliq stressed that the club’s leadership is fully aware of the team’s current shortcomings. According to him, recent performances have provided clarity on areas that require immediate improvement, particularly as the season progresses beyond the mid-point.

“We already know where the problems are,” he explained. “The management and leadership are aligned on this. There is no denial — we have identified what needs to be fixed, and we are working on it.”

Squad Reinforcements on the Horizon

Addressing questions about squad strengthening, Faliq confirmed that reinforcements are part of the club’s plans, including players with experience from high-level leagues.

“There will be improvements to the squad,” he said. “Some players are already being identified, including those with experience in competitive environments like the J-League pathway. But at this moment, we cannot reveal names.”

He added that when the time is right, supporters will be the first to know.

“InsyaAllah, when everything is finalised, we will share the details. Our supporters deserve transparency, but we must follow the proper process.”

Trust, Patience and Direction

While acknowledging fan expectations, Faliq called for continued trust and patience as the club executes its long-term vision.

“This is a process. We are building with a clear direction, not reacting emotionally to one match,” he said. “What’s important is that the club remains honest about its standards and committed to improving.”

The message from the top is clear: Negeri Sembilan FC may have taken a point, but complacency is not an option. The club’s leadership remains focused on strengthening the team and ensuring performances on the pitch match the ambition off it.

Negeri Sembilan FC Show Character and Progress in Draw Against KL City FC

In his post-match press conference following the Liga Super clash between Negeri Sembilan FC and KL City FC, head coach Nidzam Jamil highlighted the team’s growing maturity and gradual improvement after a challenging run of results.

Speaking at the press conference, Nidzam acknowledged that recent defeats had inevitably affected the squad, but praised the collective response shown over the past two weeks.

According to the coach, the last 14 days have seen strong commitment not only from the players, but also from the management, technical staff, and the wider “team behind the team.” Rather than focusing solely on working harder, Nidzam stressed the importance of working smarter—identifying weaknesses from previous matches and making steady improvements to regain consistency.

“We are not claiming that everything has returned to our best level yet,” he explained, “but we are improving step by step. In a league where expectations are always high, consistency is something we must continue to build from match to match.”

Nidzam also spoke candidly about the quality of the opposition, describing KL City FC as a mature side with strong transitional play and several experienced players capable of controlling the tempo. Earning a point against such a team, he noted, was a positive outcome, even though the squad believes there is more to come.

While satisfied with the draw, the Negeri Sembilan FC coach made it clear that the team cannot afford to settle. With crucial matches ahead, he emphasised the need to collect more points and maintain momentum moving forward.

Looking ahead to the January transfer window, Nidzam confirmed that the club is open to strengthening the squad in selected positions. He indicated that one or two new signings could be brought in to add depth and reinforce the team as the season progresses.

The performance against KL City FC, according to Nidzam, should be seen as a foundation rather than a final destination—an encouraging sign that Negeri Sembilan FC are moving in the right direction as they prepare for the challenges ahead.

Nidzam Calls for Improvement After Challenging Night in Melaka

Post-Match Media Conference with Nidzam Jamil

Melaka FC vs Negeri Sembilan FC | Liga Super 2025–26 | LS11 | 6 December | Stadium Hang Jebat

In the aftermath of Melaka FC’s 2–0 victory over Negeri Sembilan FC, Head Coach Nidzam Jamil addressed the media with honesty and clarity — reflecting on the team’s performance, acknowledging shortcomings, and outlining immediate priorities for the coming fixtures. His remarks offered a balanced view of both the technical and emotional dimensions of the match. 

A Difficult First Half and Costly Errors

Coach Nidzam began by expressing disappointment with the team’s first-half performance, admitting that the side struggled to find rhythm early in the match.

“The first half was not good. We allowed an easy goal — we gave it away. The second goal came from a set piece, and somehow the ball dropped behind our back four. It’s something that should not happen at this level.”

He stressed that both goals conceded were avoidable and stemmed from lapses in focus and structure. The coach also described the overall display as “very, very average,” highlighting the need for improvements across multiple areas.

Improved Second Half but Not Enough

Despite the slow start, Nidzam praised the changes made after the break, noting a stronger push from the players:

“Second half, we made a few changes and tried to get the goal. How I wish we could put that second-half performance into the first half.”

However, he acknowledged that football rarely allows such instant transformation, and consistency remains the biggest challenge.

Opponent’s Discipline and Organisation

Nidzam credited Melaka FC for their tactical discipline:

“They put two banks of four, very well-organised. They delayed the game in certain situations — many things worked well for them.”

The coach admitted that Negeri Sembilan struggled to break down Melaka’s defensive shape, particularly after falling behind early.

Squad Absences and the Road Ahead

Nidzam reminded the media that the Liga Super season is a long journey and the team must quickly shift focus to the upcoming matches.

The squad will be affected by significant player absences:

  • Khuzaimi Piee is expected to miss the next two matches.
  • Luis Enrique Nsue will depart for AFCON duty on 15 December.
  • Defensive adjustments are needed, with Zainal Abidin and Filip Andersen being prepared to step in.

“We need to recheck our play stability. Filip needs to play because two of our best centre-halves are not available.”

With matches against Kuala Lumpur City and Kelantan TRW FC ahead, Nidzam emphasised the need for tactical recalibration and heightened focus.

Addressing the Incident with a Supporter

Nidzam also clarified an incident involving a fan near the end of the match. He explained that while constructive criticism is part of football, comments directed at his family crossed a line.

“If you talk about technical matters, yes, that’s normal. But suddenly someone came from behind and said something about my family — specifically my mother. That is not a gentleman’s way.”

He reiterated that while players and coaches often face criticism, bringing family into the conversation is unacceptable.

“We are in sports — being criticised is normal. But please don’t involve family. It’s not nice.”

Conclusion

Coach Nidzam Jamil’s post-match reflections underscored the emotional and tactical weight of the evening’s result at Stadium Hang Jebat. While disappointed with the performance, he remains focused on rebuilding momentum, reshaping the squad through upcoming absences, and preparing diligently for the next challenges in the Liga Super marathon.

Negeri Sembilan FC will now turn the page and look ahead with determination, unity, and a commitment to improvement.

Post-Match Reaction: Nidzam Jamil Urges Stronger Winning Mentality

Sidang media selepas perlawanan Negeri Sembilan FC vs Terengganu FC | Liga Super 2025/26 | LS10 | 22 November | Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman

Negeri Sembilan FC were left with mixed emotions after a 1–1 draw against Terengganu FC at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, despite playing with a one-man advantage for most of the match.

In the post-match press conference, head coach Nidzam Jamil shared an honest and reflective assessment of his team’s performance, calling for greater maturity, tactical discipline, and a true “winning mentality.”

“We lost two points today.”

Opening his remarks, Nidzam admitted that the team should have secured all three points, especially after Terengganu were reduced to 10 men early in the match.

“I feel we lost two points. Against 10 men, we needed to show better tactical management and know how to kill the game.” 

Despite the numerical advantage, Nidzam highlighted that Terengganu continued to control portions of the match and even threatened late on, exposing moments of naivety from his squad.

Learning How to ‘Kill the Game’

The head coach emphasised that closing out matches is not just about tactical precision, but also mental strength.

“We need to grow mentally as winners. When we’re leading, we must know how to finish the game. We cannot afford small mistakes.” 

He cited previous matches—against Brunei and Penang—where similar lapses occurred, reminding the team that these patterns must be corrected for the club to progress.

Playing Against 10 Men Is Not Always Easier

Nidzam also pushed back on the perception that facing a team with fewer players automatically guarantees superiority.

“Many people don’t agree, but playing against 10 is often the hardest. The team with 10 players usually shows more concentration than the 11.” 

He stressed that football requires collective thinking—numerical advantage only matters when the entire team responds with the right mentality and discipline.

Praise for Luqman Hakim’s First Super League Goal

One bright spot from the match was Luqman Hakim Shamsudin, who scored his first Liga Super goal for NSFC.

“I’m happy for him. He works hard in training and with the national team. He deserves that goal.” 

Nidzam expressed confidence that Luqman’s continued development will benefit the squad in upcoming matches.

Recognising Progress, But Demanding More

Reflecting on their opponents, Nidzam reminded that Terengganu—consistently finishing in the top four in recent seasons—are a strong side, while Negeri Sembilan are still building from last year’s 13th-place finish.

“There is improvement, but why take one point when we could take three? We must learn and grow from this.” 

Despite the frustration, he remained positive about the team’s trajectory, stressing that such challenges are part of the evolution of a developing squad.

Negeri Sembilan FC resume preparations immediately, with Nidzam emphasising that the next phase of the season requires sharper focus, stronger mentality, and the hunger to secure maximum points.

Demi Negeri, Demi Negara. Hobin Jang Hobin!

Nidzam Jamil: “A Valuable Point Away From Home”

Post-match Press Conference | DPMM FC vs Negeri Sembilan FC | Malaysia Super League 2025–26 | LS9 | 2 November | Stadium Negara Hassanal Bolkiah

Head Coach of Negeri Sembilan FC, Nidzam Jamil, reflected on his team’s performance following their 2–2 draw against DPMM FC in Brunei, describing the match as one of two contrasting halves and acknowledging the challenges of playing away from home on a short turnaround.

“We saw two very different halves tonight. In the first half, we didn’t play the way we expected, and DPMM were very good at putting the ball behind our defence,” said Nidzam. “We tried to win the first and second balls, but it wasn’t easy. In the second half, we made adjustments and pushed to get back into the game.”

Despite a demanding schedule — just four days since their previous intense fixture — Nidzam praised his players for their persistence and willingness to take risks until the final whistle.

“We had chances to kill the game at 2–1 or 3–1, but we couldn’t take them. That’s football. Still, I’m happy the players kept trying to score even in the last 10 minutes. They showed good fighting spirit,” he added.

The Negeri Sembilan coach also touched on the referee’s decisions and DPMM’s tactical approach, emphasizing the importance of accepting circumstances and maintaining focus.

“The penalty decision is part of the game, and we respect that. DPMM played well at home — every team has that advantage, especially when we only had three days to prepare and had to travel yesterday,” he explained.

Nidzam concluded by noting that the point earned away in Brunei was a respectable outcome for his side.

“Considering the travel, the short rest, and the intensity of our recent matches, I think one point away from home is good. For a club like Negeri Sembilan, we can be satisfied with that.”

The result keeps Negeri Sembilan FC moving steadily through their Malaysia Super League campaign as they look ahead to their next challenge back on home soil.