Johor Darul Ta’Zim II edged past hosts Selangor II with a hard-fought 1-0 victory in the Liga A1 Semi-Pro 2025/26 at Stadium MP Sepang, Salak Tinggi.
Selangor II lined up with Azim Al Amin guarding the posts, while Adam Haikal wore the captain’s armband and Rahman Daud spearheaded the attacking line. JDT II, meanwhile, entrusted Zulhilmi Sharani between the sticks, with Daryl Sham leading the charge for the Southern Tigers’ reserves.
The home side nearly drew first blood through an early move by Harry Danish, but JDT II goalkeeper Faris Danish reacted calmly to snuff out the danger just outside the penalty area.
Selangor II came close again in the 18th minute when Muhammad Abu Khalil unleashed a dangerous free-kick, only to see his powerful effort sail narrowly wide of the JDT II goal.
JDT II responded through Celso Bermejo in the 27th minute. The attacker met an inviting delivery from Syukur Fariz, but his free header inside the box drifted inches off target. Despite both sides creating openings, the first half ended goalless at 0-0.
The visitors returned from the break with renewed intent and were rewarded almost immediately. In the 48th minute, Celso Bermejo broke the deadlock by coolly converting a well-worked free-kick routine, finishing off Alif Mutalib’s precise delivery to give JDT II a crucial lead.
Selangor II raised the tempo over the next 10 minutes in search of an equaliser, but their efforts were repeatedly repelled by a disciplined and well-organised JDT II defence. Rahman Daud continued to drive the Red Giants forward, yet clear-cut chances remained hard to come by.
The final whistle confirmed a 1-0 victory for JDT II, marking their 10th win of the Liga A1 Semi-Pro campaign. For Selangor II, it was a first taste of defeat this season.
Despite the setback, Selangor II remain top of the Liga A1 Semi-Pro standings with 36 points, while JDT II stay close in second place on 33 points, setting up an intriguing title race as the season progresses.
Credit Photo : JST
