Penang FC seized the advantage in their Piala FA Malaysia 2025/26 Round of 16 tie, defeating Melaka FC 2-0 at the Hang Jebat Stadium, Melaka on Sunday night.
The two sides came into the match familiar with each other, having drawn 1-1 at the same venue just four days earlier in the Super League. This time, however, Penang showed greater composure and killer instinct, leaving Melaka with a mountain to climb in the second leg.
The hosts started brightly, with captain Irfan Zakaria marshalling the defense and Shahrel Fikri leading their attack. They carved out several chances in the first half, but Penang’s goalkeeper Khairulazhan Khalid, the former Malaysian international, stood firm. At the other end, Jun Badelic made crucial saves to deny Penang, ensuring the first half ended goalless.
After the break, Penang wasted no time asserting themselves. Just five minutes into the second half, Wenzel Halls pounced to fire the visitors in front. The goal unsettled Melaka, who struggled to recover despite pushing forward in search of an equalizer.
As the match neared its closing stages, Penang delivered the decisive blow. In the 80th minute, Halls struck again, finishing off a counterattack to silence the home crowd and secure a commanding away win for the Harimau Kumbang.
With a 2-0 first-leg lead, Penang now head back to the Stadium Bandaraya, Pulau Pinang for the return fixture, knowing they hold a crucial advantage. Melaka, meanwhile, will need a big response if they are to turn the tie around and keep their FA Cup hopes alive.
Credit Photo : MFC
