Johor Darul Ta’Zim earned 3 points in away matches after beating Sri Pahang FC scoring 3-1 in the Liga Super Malaysia 2024/25 at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, Iskandar Puteri.
JDT, led by head coach Héctor Bidoglio, wasted no time asserting dominance in the opening stages of the game. In the third minute, Spanish forward Óscar Arribas nearly opened the scoring after receiving a precise pass from Afiq Fazail, but his shot went wide.
Arribas had another golden opportunity in the 25th minute after an excellent assist from Juan Muniz, yet Sri Pahang’s goalkeeper, Zarif Irfan Hashimuddin, displayed incredible reflexes to deny the attempt.
Despite JDT’s relentless pressure and attacking threats from Bergson da Silva and Arif Aiman Hanapi, Sri Pahang’s defense, anchored by Adam Nor Azlin, held firm. The first half ended in a goalless stalemate, with Tok Gajah displaying commendable defensive discipline.
JDT’s persistence paid off early in the second half. In the 48th minute, Juan Muniz delivered a dangerous corner kick, forcing an error from Adam Nor Azlin as the ball ricocheted off his back. Despite Zarif Irfan’s efforts, the deflection resulted in an own goal, giving JDT a 1-0 lead.
Four minutes later, JDT doubled their advantage. Muniz once again played a pivotal role, threading a perfectly weighted through ball to Bergson da Silva, who smashed it past Zarif Irfan with a clinical finish. The goal marked Bergson’s 17th of the season, cementing his position as the league’s top scorer.
Just as JDT appeared to be cruising, Sri Pahang responded almost immediately. In the 53rd minute, substitute David Rowley capitalized on a pinpoint cross from Mykola Ahapov, leaping high to deliver a powerful header past Ahmad Syihan Hazmi Mohamed, reducing the deficit to 2-1.
The goal reignited Sri Pahang’s hopes, but JDT’s composure and experience ensured they maintained control of the game.
As the match neared its conclusion, JDT were awarded a penalty following a VAR review by referee Ahmad Zuhaidi Dzulkifli, who spotted a foul on Arif Aiman inside the box.
Bergson stepped up to take the spot-kick in the 88th minute and confidently slotted it into the net, leaving Zarif Irfan with no chance. The goal sealed a comprehensive 3-1 victory for JDT and highlighted their superiority in the domestic league.
The win reinforced JDT’s dominance in the Liga Super Malaysia, as they remain unbeaten this season. With 46 points from 16 matches, Bidoglio’s men are firmly on track for yet another league title, showcasing their attacking prowess and tactical discipline.
For Sri Pahang FC, the defeat underlined the challenge of facing the league’s top team, but Fandi Ahmad’s squad displayed moments of resilience, particularly through Rowley’s impactful performance.
The win extended JDT’s undefeated streak and solidified their place at the league standings with 46 points from 15 wins and one draw. Meanwhile, Sri Pahang FC, under the guidance of Fandi Ahmad, remains in ninth place with 15 points.
JDT will next face Selangor FC in what promises to be another high-stakes match as they continue their pursuit of league glory. Meanwhile, Sri Pahang FC will aim to bounce back and improve their position in the standings as the season progresses.
Credit Photo : JST
