Selangor FC edged the victory and advantage after beating PDRM FC, scoring 3-2 in the MFL Challenge Cup 2024/25 Final 1st leg at MBPJ Stadium, Petaling Jaya.
This highly anticipated clash pitted Selangor’s hunger for silverware against PDRM’s determination to retain their crown. Head coach Katsuhito Kinoshi fielded his strongest lineup, with captain Safuwan Baharudin leading the charge, while PDRM relied on their attacking duo of Ifedayo and Shahrel Fikri to find the net.
Selangor wasted no time making their mark. Just four minutes into the match, Alvin Fortes showcased his sharp instincts, calmly slotting home the opening goal to ignite the home crowd.
However, the Red Giants suffered a massive setback in the 12th minute when captain Safuwan Baharudin was sent off following a VAR review, leaving Selangor with 10 men for the remainder of the game.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Selangor refused to back down. Their resilience paid off as Fortes struck again in the 19th minute, doubling his tally and putting his side 2-0 ahead.
PDRM, with the extra-man advantage, capitalized on their opportunities. Shahrel Fikri pulled one back before Badrul Effendy’s towering header leveled the scoreline at 2-2 before halftime.
After the break, Selangor regrouped and wasted little time in regaining the lead. Jordanian forward Ali Olwan delivered a moment of brilliance in the 50th minute, firing home the third goal to send the Red Giants’ supporters into celebration.
Desperate for an equalizer, PDRM made attacking changes, introducing Bruno Suzuki, Hadi Fayyadh, and Shafizi Iqmal to intensify their offensive pressure. Yet, Selangor’s disciplined defense held firm, refusing to concede despite playing with one man down.
At the final whistle, Selangor FC emerged victorious with a 3-2 triumph, gaining the upper hand ahead of the second leg.
With the return fixture looming, PDRM will be eager to overturn the deficit, while Selangor aims to complete their mission and lift the coveted MFL Challenge Cup.
Credit Photo : Selangor FC
