PETALING JAYA: When Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) needed a spark, Jairo Da Silva delivered a blaze.
The Brazilian forward has quickly become the heartbeat of the Southern Tigers’ attack – a signing whose feet speak fluently in goals and whose mindset embodies the club’s winning DNA.
Jairo was instrumental in JDT’s 5-0 thrashing of Terengganu in the Super League at the Sultan Mizan Stadium in Gong Badak last Friday.
The 33-year-old came off the bench in the 61st minute to replace Spanish midfielder Ager Aketxe – and in just 13 breathtaking minutes, he completed a hattrick.
Jairo found the net in the 64th, 72nd and 78th minutes, while compatriot Bergson Da Silva (fifth) and Romel Morales (31st) contributed the other two goals in a commanding display.
In the Super League, Jairo, who can also operate as a winger, now leads the scoring charts with 10 goals and two assists.
His influence stretches beyond domestic borders too – one assist in three AFC Champions League (ACL) Elite matches, two assists in the Shopee Asean Club Championships, and another two in the FA Cup underline his all-round importance to the team.
“It is normal to be tired after a game when you are playing at 100%. But I have no issues physically, I feel good,” said Jairo, smiling as he reflected on his first hattrick in JDT colours.
“That makes me really happy – especially to do it wearing this jersey. I’m proud to help the team extend our lead and build momentum this season.”
Since joining JDT from Cypriot club Pafos in July, Jairo has settled in seamlessly, combining flair with work ethic.
His ability to find space, link play, and finish clinically has added another dimension to an already potent JDT frontline.
“Whatever the role, I’m happy to come in and contribute,” he added.
“Three goals in a game is great, but for me, it’s always about the team first. We get the three points, and then we can talk about my performance.”
JDT will next host Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua in the ACL Elite tomorrow at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri, before turning their focus to the FA Cup semi-final first leg against Kuching City on Nov 8 at the State Stadium in Kuching.
“Two tough games are coming, but we are on a good run right now,” Jairo said.
“We just have to keep our heads down, feet on the ground, and continue to work hard – that’s the JDT way.”
