rajan koran Archives

Negeri Sembilan FC interim head coach K. Rajan praised his players’ resilience and commitment after the Jang Hobin secured a convincing 6–1 victory over PDRM FC in the Malaysia Super League clash at Stadium Majlis Perbandaran Selayang on 13 March.

Speaking during the post-match press conference, Rajan described the win as a significant psychological boost for the squad, particularly after a difficult run of six league matches without victory. The triumph also marked Negeri Sembilan’s first away win of the 2025–26 Super League campaign and Rajan’s first success since taking over in an interim capacity.

The coach credited the collective effort behind the scenes, emphasising the strong support from his coaching staff and club management during the transitional period. He noted that although the team’s overall performance was “moderate,” the result itself was the most important outcome in competitive football.

“In football, only the result counts. Sometimes you play well and don’t win, and sometimes you play average but still get the result. Today the players deserve full credit,” Rajan explained.

Clinical Finishing the Key Difference

Negeri Sembilan displayed ruthless efficiency, scoring three goals in each half to seal an emphatic victory. Rajan revealed that his message at half-time was simple — maintain intensity and continue attacking. He stressed that goal difference could prove decisive later in the season, particularly after last season’s tight battles near the lower end of the table.

Despite the dominant scoreline, the interim coach remained pragmatic in his assessment of the team’s progress. He acknowledged that tactical adjustments and improvements in playing style will require time, especially after stepping into the role midway through the campaign.

Signs of Momentum Before Festive Break

Rajan highlighted that the team had already shown encouraging performances in previous matches, even when results did not go their way. He believes the Selayang victory could serve as a turning point as the squad heads into the upcoming festive break with renewed confidence.

The coach also commended the players’ commitment in both training and matches, stressing that gradual tactical evolution is part of a longer-term process. With morale lifted and momentum regained, Negeri Sembilan FC will look to build on this breakthrough result in the remaining fixtures of the Super League season.

Negeri Sembilan FC Interim Head Coach Rajan Koran is set to roll out an enhanced tactical approach as the Jang travel to face Sabah FC at Stadium Likas tomorrow.

Entrusted with the responsibility following the resignation of Nidzam Jamil, Rajan expressed his gratitude to the club’s management for the confidence placed in him to guide the team through this transitional phase.

“I accept this challenge with full responsibility and determination to give my very best,” he said.

Tactical Refinement for a Fresh Start

Aware of the need to inject renewed momentum into the squad, Rajan revealed that his primary focus throughout the week has been to fine-tune the team’s playing structure. Targeted tactical adjustments have been introduced in training sessions to address shortcomings from the previous outing, with the effectiveness of the revamped system set to be tested in his first match in charge at Likas.

The encounter presents a stern challenge. Sabah are widely regarded as formidable on home soil, backed by passionate support that often transforms Likas into a fortress. Nevertheless, NSFC have crafted a refreshed game plan designed to absorb pressure intelligently while launching incisive attacks against the hosts.

No Complacency Despite Past Victory

Although NSFC recorded an impressive 3-0 victory over Sabah in Paroi earlier this season, Rajan dismissed any notion of complacency.

“Previous results will not be taken into account. That match is in the past, and we will focus on one game at a time. Sabah are now guided by a new coach, so we do not know exactly what tactical setup or formation they will employ. But as a coach, I have prepared NSFC mentally and physically to adapt to this new system,” he added.

Squad Update Ahead of Likas Clash

Overall, the NSFC camp remains in satisfactory physical condition, with only a handful of players nursing minor knocks.

However, the Jang will be without two key figures for this important away fixture. Yuichi Hirano serves a one-match suspension following a red card in the clash against Imigresen FC last week, while Joseph Esso is also unavailable after accumulating three yellow cards.

Despite these absences, the team heads to Likas with renewed belief, a refined tactical blueprint, and a collective determination to rise to the occasion.