Kuala Lumpur City was defeat first match after losing to Lion City Sailors, a club from Singapore scoring 0-2 in the Shopee Cup 2024/25 Group Stage, Group B at Jalan Besar Stadium, Kallang.
Under the guidance of coach Aleksandar Rankovic, the Sailors fielded a star-studded lineup featuring Bailey Wright, Maxime Lestienne, Shawal Anuar, and Song Ui-young. Their cohesive play and sharp finishing were instrumental in claiming the victory.
The match started with KL City, coached by Miroslav Kuljanac, deploying an attacking trio of Paulo Josue, Haqimi Azim, and J. Partiban. Despite their aggressive intent, KL City struggled to break through the solid defense marshaled by Wright and goalkeeper Izwan Mahbud.
Lion City opened the scoring in the 26th minute when captain Bailey Wright rose highest to deliver a powerful header, leaving KL City’s goalkeeper Azri Ghani with no chance. The first half concluded with the hosts leading 1-0.
The Sailors maintained their dominance in the second half, launching quick counterattacks to keep the pressure on KL City. Their persistence paid off in the 66th minute when Maxime Lestienne finished a fluid team move to double the lead.
Despite KL City’s efforts to claw back into the game, including several late attacks during five minutes of injury time, they could not find the back of the net.
The loss saw KL City remain in second place in Group B with six points from three matches. Lion City Sailors, on the other hand, moved up to fifth place, earning their first three points of the group stage.
Credit Photo : KL City
