Johor Darul Ta’zim showed the heart of champions on Thursday night, fighting back to earn a gritty 1–1 draw against Nam Định FC at Thiên Trường Stadium, Ninh Binh.
The match was a rollercoaster for JDT goalkeeper Andoni Zubiaurre, who turned in a “Man of the Match” caliber performance. The drama began in the 33rd minute when Syahmi Safari conceded a penalty for a foul on Caio Cesar. While Zubiaurre heroically parried the initial spot-kick, Nam Định’s Nguyen Van Vi was quickest to the rebound, slotting home to give the hosts a 1–0 lead.
Zubiaurre’s brilliance was tested again in the 51st minute after a handball from Hector Hevel gifted Nam Định a second penalty. This time, the Spaniard stood firm, producing a stunning save to deny former Brighton star Percy Tau and keeping JDT’s hopes alive.
With time running out and Nam Định’s disciplined defense holding firm, JDT’s persistence finally paid off in the 85th minute. A goal-bound free-kick from Joao Figueiredo was blocked by a hand in the box, and the referee pointed to the spot for the third time in the match.
The ever-reliable Bérgson da Silva stepped up and rifled his effort into the net, marking his sixth goal of the tournament and ensuring the Southern Tigers returned to Johor with a crucial point.
The result ensures the Southern Tigers finish as runners-up in Group B, punch their ticket to the 2025/26 Shopee Cup semi-finals, and end Nam Định’s perfect winning streak.
JDT’s second-place finish sets up a colossal “El Clasico” of ASEAN football. In the semi-finals this May, the Southern Tigers will face Group A winners and defending champions Buriram United in a two-legged affair. Meanwhile, Nam Định will take on Malaysia’s other representative, Selangor FC.
Credit Photo : JST
