KUCHING – Kuching City FC (KCFC) narrowly lost 1-2 to defending champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) at the Sarawak State Stadium on Sunday night, in the first leg of the FA Cup. Despite the defeat, KCFC’s determination and spirited performance showed that their mission for a comeback remains very much alive ahead of the second leg in Johor on November 29.
From the start, both teams displayed aggressive attacking play, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. KCFC created several dangerous opportunities but were unable to convert their chances into goals. The breakthrough came in the 36th minute when JDT’s prolific import striker, Bergson Da Silva, capitalized on a defensive lapse to put the visitors ahead 1-0, leaving KCFC’s goalkeeper Muhammad Haziq with no chance.
The second half saw JDT continue their offensive pressure, and just five minutes after the restart, Bergson struck again to double the lead for the visitors. KCFC, however, refused to back down. Their relentless effort paid off in the 69th minute when Petrus Shitembi scored following a rebound from an error by JDT goalkeeper Ahmad Syihan, narrowing the deficit to 1-2.
In the remaining minutes, KCFC pressed hard, seeking an equalizer, but JDT’s resilient defense managed to withstand the pressure. Despite the loss, KCFC’s performance showcased their fighting spirit and left fans hopeful for a dramatic turnaround in the return leg.
KCFC coach Aidil Sharin praised his team’s attitude and emphasized that the FA Cup tie is far from over. “We have shown that we can compete with the best. The team’s energy and determination mean that the comeback mission is still very much possible,” he said.
With the return leg set for November 29 in Johor, fans are eagerly anticipating whether KCFC can pull off a memorable upset against the reigning champions.
