Johor Darul Ta’zim staged a dramatic late fightback to secure a 2–2 draw against Cambodian side Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng in the Shopee Cup 2025/26 Group Stage, Group B at Morodok Techo National Stadium, Phnom Penh.
The hosts fielded Vireak Dara in goal and relied heavily on danger man Kwame Peprah, while the Southern Tigers started with Andoni Zubiaurre between the posts, Jairo da Silva leading the attack, and Shahrul Saad wearing the captain’s armband.
Svay Rieng launched an immediate warning shot in the opening minute through Nhean Sosidan, though it failed to test Zubiaurre. The Cambodian side continued to take control throughout the first half hour, registering multiple dangerous attempts—but Zubiaurre held firm to keep JDT alive.
JDT responded with a threat of their own via Mohamadou Sumareh, but the forward was denied from finding the breakthrough.
The home side finally broke the deadlock in the 30th minute when Cristian Roque unleashed a powerful long-range strike that flew past Zubiaurre, putting Svay Rieng 1–0 ahead.
Momentum stayed with The Blue Saber. An elegant attacking move in the 38th minute ended with Nhean Sosidan calmly slotting home the second goal, sending the home fans into raptures.
JDT nearly reduced the deficit through Corbin Ong before halftime, but his effort sailed well over the bar.
Svay Rieng entered the break with a comfortable 2–0 lead.
The Southern Tigers emerged for the second half with renewed urgency, pushing forward in search of a comeback. Heberty Fernandes spearheaded several dangerous attacks, but Svay Rieng’s defence held firm.
In the last 20 minutes, Matthew Davies was introduced to strengthen JDT’s backline and prevent further damage.
Despite increasing pressure, the scoreline remained unchanged entering the final stretch—Svay Rieng still leading 2–0 after 75 minutes.
The match exploded into life in stoppage time.
First, Shane Lowry ignited hope with JDT’s opening goal in the 91st minute, capitalizing on a loose ball to make it 2–1.
Then, deep into the 96th minute, Corbin Ong delivered the moment JDT fans had been praying for—slotting in the equaliser to complete a sensational comeback.
The final whistle confirmed a 2–2 draw, a result that felt like a victory for JDT after a relentless late surge. Svay Rieng, meanwhile, were left stunned after letting a two-goal lead slip in the dying moments.
Credit Photo : JST
