Kuching City took a massive step toward the Piala Malaysia 2025/26 semi-finals after delivering a clinical 1–3 away victory over DPMM FC at Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, Berakas.
Kuching City signaled their intent from the opening whistle, deploying a high-intensity press that unsettled the DPMM backline. While the home side threatened through the dangerous Syafiq Ahmad and Jordan Murray, Kuching’s goalkeeper Haziq Nadzli was in inspired form, producing several top-tier saves to keep the hosts frustrated.
The breakthrough finally came on the stroke of halftime. New import signing Jerome Etame showcased his predatory instincts, silencing the home crowd with a well-placed finish to hand the visitors a 1–0 lead heading into the break.
The second half began with DPMM searching for an equalizer, and they found it in the 50th minute via a stroke of luck. A defensive mix-up saw Kuching captain James Okwuosa accidentally turn the ball into his own net, briefly igniting hope for the Bruneian supporters.
However, the momentum shifted back to Kuching City in the 64th minute. A corner delivery caused chaos in the DPMM box, and goalkeeper Haimie Nyaring’s failed attempt to punch the ball clear resulted in the visitors’ second goal of the night.
With DPMM pushing forward for another equalizer, Kuching City exploited the space on the counter-attack. In the 83rd minute, Ramadhan Saifullah applied the finishing touch to a slick attacking move, sealing a 3–1 win and putting the tie firmly in Kuching’s control.
Despite the home advantage for the Bruneian side, “The Cats” dominated the tempo at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium to bring a comfortable two-goal cushion back to Sarawak.
Credit Photo : DPMM FC
