The highly anticipated All-Star showdown between Kedah and Malaysia, originally scheduled for April 11 2025, has been officially postponed following the unexpected absence of Portuguese football icon Ricardo Quaresma, who was set to be the star attraction of the night.
The announcement was made in a statement by Tan Sri Dr. Daud Abu Bakar, majority shareholder of Kedah Darul Aman FC (KDA FC), expressing regret over the change in plans and citing unforeseen personal circumstances involving Quaresma.
According to the statement, Quaresma was scheduled to arrive in Malaysia on April 7, but a family member’s illness has forced the former FC Porto and Barcelona winger to remain in Portugal. The 41-year-old legend is reportedly staying by his loved one’s side as they undergo hospital treatment.
“Ricardo has expressed his deep apologies to the fans through a special video message and reaffirmed his commitment to join us at Darul Aman Stadium on a later date,” said Tan Sri Daud.
The former Portugal international, known for his trademark trivela and dazzling footwork, has proposed a rescheduled date of April 22, but the organizers are carefully reviewing the feasibility of this date, as it closely coincides with KDA FC’s final Super League fixture against Terengganu FC.
“As soon as we confirm a new date, it will be announced through the club’s official channels,” he added.
Despite the postponement, the excitement around the event remains high. The exhibition match will showcase a host of legendary names from Kedah and Malaysia’s football past, including Indra Putra Mahayuddin, Hardi Jaafar, Azamuddin Akil, Radhi Mat Din, Baddrol Bakhtiar, and Khyril Muhymeen.
Quaresma, who won the UEFA Euro 2016 with Portugal and has represented elite clubs across Europe, was expected to don the Kedah All-Star jersey as a special guest in what would have been a once-in-a-lifetime moment for fans at Darul Aman.
While the delay may disappoint fans eager to witness the action, KDA FC has assured supporters that the match will go on as planned—on a new, soon-to-be-confirmed date—with Quaresma’s participation still very much on the cards.
Credit Photo : KDA FC
