PETALING JAYA: Brunei’s veteran midfielder Azwan Ali Rahman is bracing himself for a reunion with familiar foes when Kelantan host the Malaysia Cup first leg last-16 tie at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium in Kota Baru today.
The Red Warriors, once a Super League powerhouse, are now competing in the A1 Semi-Pro League after being expelled from the top tier two seasons ago due to financial difficulties.
Despite the change in status, Azwan, who celebrated his 34th birthday on Jan 11, believes the challenge remains largely unchanged.
“They seem the same. The only difference is the lack of an import quota for Kelantan,” said Azwan.
“This is the ‘real’ Kelantan, the side that used to compete in the Super League and was a powerhouse that truly made a name for themselves.”
Kelantan are one of Malaysia’s most decorated clubs, having lifted the Malaysia Cup twice, in 2010 and 2012, and continue to command respect despite their fall from the elite level.
Brunei’s own Malaysia Cup history carries special significance.
Their sole triumph came in 1999, when they defeated Borneo rivals Sarawak 2–1 in the final.
“The Malaysia Cup is the only trophy that has ever been flown back to Brunei after we won it in 1999,” Azwan recalled.
“It remains a very sweet memory for both the fans and the players of that era.”
Brunei have reinforced their squad with the signings of Ghanaian midfielder Ibrahim Sulley and Nigerian striker Christian Irobiso and Azwan said integrating new players would take time but remained optimistic.
“It takes time to find a balance and gel with the new players,” said Azwan, who has represented Brunei since 2013, racking up more than 250 appearances at the club level.
“We need to work together and support one another to bridge that gap.”
