The “Fortress” Sultan Ibrahim Stadium lived up to its name tonight. In a masterclass of intensity and tactical discipline, Xisco Muñoz led Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) to a massive 3-1 first-leg victory over Japanese giants Sanfrecce Hiroshima. The result puts the Southern Tigers in the driver’s seat as they eye a historic quarter-final berth in the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26.
JDT didn’t just win; they dominated. Xisco Muñoz was quick to praise his squad’s “aggressive” control of the ball, noting that the team’s energy levels were off the charts. The game swung heavily in JDT’s favor when Sanfrecce were reduced to 10 men.
“After they lost a player, we became even stronger,” Xisco said. “The players understood the situation perfectly. We had the control, the capacity to keep the ball, and we created the chances we needed.”
While JDT fans were dreaming of a clean sheet, a late goal from the visitors took a tiny bit of gloss off the scoreline. But Xisco isn’t complaining.
“If we wanted the perfect Hollywood film, it’s 3-0. But I told you yesterday, 3-1 is a result everyone would be happy with.”
Meanwhile, JDT’s depth was tested when the captain Natxo Insa had to be replaced due to injury. His replacement didn’t skip a beat, entering the fray “angry” to prove his level and helping the Tigers maintain their grip on the match.
Despite the two-goal cushion, Xisco is refusing to celebrate early. He knows the trip to Japan will be a different beast entirely.
Credit Photo : JST
