Built at the back: James Okwuosa in action during their last league game against Kuala Lumpur. - Photo by Kuching City FC.
PETALING JAYA: A rock-solid defence marshalled by towering centreback James Okwuosa has propelled Kuching City to second place in the Super League as they close out 2025 in impressive fashion.
Led by the 35-year-old Nigerian captain, the Borneo side have conceded just six goals in 12 Super League matches, only one more than defending champions Johor Darul Ta’zim, who have let in five over the same number of games.
Kuching City currently sit second in the standings with 25 points from 12 matches.
With 12 games left in the league, the numbers underline a clear upward trajectory. At their current pace, Kuching City are well on track to surpass last year’s achievements.
“Yes, it’s a team effort, not just from the defensive line, but from the entire squad,” said Okwuosa, who joined the club in 2024.
“We are trying to create a healthy environment where every player feels important. We also remind them that there is always room to make history and leave a legacy.
“I think the players understand that now, and they believe in it as well.”
Okwuosa has been central to Kuching City’s defensive solidity, leading the back line with authority.
Last season, the Cats finished fourth with 39 points from 24 games and recorded the league’s fourth-best defensive record, conceding 28 goals.
The former Nigerian international stands at 1.92m, giving him commanding aerial ability, while his long stride allows him to cut out danger through timely interceptions and tackles.
Okwuosa remained humble.
“It’s not just about me. We have leaders throughout the team, from the goalkeepers to the strikers. That leadership has been very helpful for us this season,” he said.
Above all, Okwuosa credited head coach Aidil Sharin for the strong foundation behind Kuching City’s success.
“Aidil understands each player’s strengths and weaknesses, and he works hard to keep everyone in the right mindset, even if you are not playing.”
Kuching’s next league tie is against Kelantan at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium in Kota Baru on Friday.
