KL City FC Secures 1-0 Victory in Malaysia Cup Quarterfinals
In an intense matchup at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur City FC emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 win over Sri Pahang FC in the first leg quarterfinals of the 20223 Malaysia Cup. A penalty goal by Columbian striker Romel Morales in the second half proved to be the deciding factor for the four-time champions.
Throughout the first half, both teams displayed fierce determination, with neither side able to find the back of the net. Sri Pahang came close to taking the lead in the sixth minute when Liberian striker Kpah Sherman unleashed a powerful shot on target. However, KL City FC’s goalkeeper Kevin Ray Mendoza was on top form and made a crucial block. On the other end of the field, Sri Pahang’s keeper, Mohd Izham Tarmizi Roslan, had his hands full as he denied three attempts in just two minutes.
As the first half drew to a close, the scoreboard remained 0-0, reflecting the evenly matched contest on the field. However, the deadlock was broken in the 74th minute when Morales successfully converted a penalty kick. This goal made up for his earlier missed opportunity in the 52nd minute, where he had fired wide. The penalty was awarded after defender Muhammad Syazwan Andik fouled KL City FC captain Paulo Josue.
Despite KL City FC being reduced to ten men in the 82nd minute due to a midfielder’s foul on Sherman, Sri Pahang failed to capitalize on their numerical advantage. The match concluded with KL City FC securing a 1-0 victory.
Sri Pahang, whose last Malaysia Cup triumph came in 2014, will have a chance to redeem themselves in the second leg quarterfinal match. They are set to host KL City FC at the Darul Makmur Stadium in Kuantan on September 24.
The nail-biting encounter between KL City FC and Sri Pahang showcased the relentless pursuit of victory from both teams. With the second leg on the horizon, all eyes will be on whether Sri Pahang can overturn their 1-0 deficit and advance in the tournament. Stay tuned for more thrilling action as the Malaysia Cup unfolds.
