Selangor FC salvaged a dramatic late draw against Kuching City FC as the first leg of the Piala Malaysia 2025/26 semi-final ended 1-1 at MBPJ Stadium, Petaling Jaya.
The intense encounter saw both sides deliver a competitive battle, with Kuching City appearing set for a crucial away victory before a late equaliser from Chrigor Moraes rescued the Red Giants in front of their home supporters.
Kuching City’s attacking line was led by Ronald Ngah Wanja and Gabriel Nistelrooy, while Selangor relied on goalkeeper Kalamullah Al-Hafiz to guard the posts.
The home side started aggressively, launching several early attacks in search of the opening goal. Brazilian forward Chrigor Moraes nearly broke the deadlock in the early stages, but his powerful effort drifted narrowly wide of the target.
Kuching City gradually settled into the match and came close themselves when Ronald Ngah Wanja threatened the Selangor defence, only to see his move halted by the Red Giants’ backline.
Despite Selangor controlling much of the first half, the visitors struck first in the 42nd minute. Ronald Ngah Wanja calmly converted a penalty after Safuwan Baharudin brought him down inside the box, giving Kuching City a 1-0 lead at halftime.
The second half saw both teams trading dangerous attacking moves, though neither side initially managed to extend their tally.
Selangor gradually raised the tempo, spurred on by the passionate support of thousands of fans in Petaling Jaya. Star winger Faisal Halim repeatedly tested the Kuching defence with several dangerous attempts.
However, Kuching City goalkeeper Haziq Nadzli delivered a solid performance, making key saves to deny Selangor time and again.
Just when it seemed the visitors would secure a valuable first-leg advantage, Chrigor Moraes stepped up in the closing minutes to fire home the equaliser, sending the home crowd into celebration.
The goal ensured Selangor remained firmly in the tie as the match concluded 1-1.
With the semi-final delicately poised, both teams will meet again in the decisive second leg at Sarawak State Stadium in Kuching on 18 April, where a place in the Malaysia Cup final will be on the line.
Credit Photo : SFC
