Pahang Rangers won 3rd place after beating Kuala Lumpur City scoring 4-2 in the Malaysia Futsal Cup 2024 third-place match at Axiata Arena, Kuala Lumpur.
Both teams, eager to end their campaigns on a high note after being knocked out in the semi-finals, delivered a thrilling performance.
Pahang Rangers, led by head coach Luis Fonseca Cilleros, were determined to bounce back after their semi-final exit to Selangor FC, while KL City sought redemption following their loss to Johor Darul Ta’zim.
The first half saw both sides pushing to gain an early advantage. KL City’s Hussain Kadhemi opened the scoring in the 10th minute, giving his team the lead and leaving Pahang Rangers scrambling to find an equalizer.
Indonesian import Guntur Sulistyo came close to leveling the score for Pahang Rangers in the 16th minute, only to be thwarted by KL City’s in-form goalkeeper, Zunnurain Nor Sham. Despite being awarded a second spot penalty after KL City committed six fouls, Pahang Rangers couldn’t capitalize, with Guntur’s attempt once again denied by the outstanding Zunnurain.
However, Harith Naim Mohd Nasir made sure Pahang Rangers didn’t head into the break empty-handed, netting a crucial equalizer just 10 seconds before halftime, bringing the score to 1-1.
The second half saw an even more determined Pahang Rangers side. After absorbing pressure early on, Harith Naim struck again in the 28th minute, firing a powerful shot past Zunnurain to give Pahang Rangers a 2-1 lead.
Just four minutes later, Tuah Eizlan Aminnudin added another goal for Pahang Rangers, extending their lead to 3-1. However, KL City responded quickly, with Dodie Al Fareq Mohd Zailani successfully converting a second spot penalty to reduce the deficit to 3-2, reigniting hope for a comeback.
Despite KL City’s efforts to find an equalizer, Pahang Rangers’ defense held firm. The match was sealed in the final moments when Nazreen Saudi scored the fourth goal, ensuring a 4-2 victory and securing Pahang Rangers’ third place in the tournament.
Pahang Rangers’ triumph marks a satisfying end to their Malaysia Futsal Cup 2024 journey. Despite the challenges posed by KL City, the team’s resilience and clinical finishing in key moments propelled them to victory. For KL City, the result highlights their competitive spirit, but they fell just short in their quest for a podium finish.
Credit Photo : FAM
