Sabah FC overcame torrential rain, strong winds and a difficult waterlogged pitch to secure their second Unifi Liga Super Malaysia victory of the 2026/27 season, defeating Penang FC 2-0 at Likas Stadium, Kota Kinabalu.
The Sang Badak produced a disciplined display in challenging conditions, with a goal in each half helping the hosts maintain their perfect start to the campaign after previously defeating Star City FC 3-1.
Quick counter-attacking moves proved decisive as Sabah repeatedly exposed gaps in the Penang defence despite the slippery surface.
Sabah created several opportunities during the opening stages but struggled to find the target.
Their persistence finally paid off in the 40th minute when striker Gonzalo Ignacio Di Renzo finished a rapid attacking move to give the hosts the lead. Sabah 1-0 Penang.
The goal gave Sabah an important advantage heading into the interval and rewarded their aggressive approach in transition.
The Sang Badak continued to threaten after the restart. In the 53rd minute, Sabah defender Abdul Hanafie Tokyo Abdul Hasim produced the second decisive moment of the night.
A high delivery appeared difficult for Penang goalkeeper Mohd Ramdhan Ab Hamid to judge, with the ball eventually finding its way into the net. Sabah had doubled their advantage.
The goal allowed the hosts to settle into a more defensive shape while Penang were forced to commit players forward.
Penang increased the pressure during the final 15 minutes as they searched desperately for a goal that could change the contest.
The Panthers created several dangerous opportunities, but Sabah’s defence remained organised and determined.
The difficult pitch conditions also affected both teams, with standing water and a slippery surface making ball control particularly challenging.
Players frequently struggled to maintain possession, with passes slowing or being disrupted when the ball travelled through puddles.
Despite the conditions, Sabah maintained their defensive discipline. Penang came close to pulling one back in the 88th minute when they won a free-kick just outside the Sabah penalty area.
The attempt threatened to find the target, but Sabah goalkeeper Juan Flere reacted quickly to make an important save and preserve his clean sheet.
Sabah were then awarded a late free-kick of their own in stoppage time, but the opportunity was not converted.
The final whistle confirmed a 2-0 victory for Sabah FC. The victory gives Sabah their second win of the 2026/27 Super League season, following their 3-1 success over Star City FC earlier in the campaign.
Credit Photo : Sabah FC
