PETALING JAYA: Perak, now playing in the A1 Semi-Pro League, stunned Kuala Lumpur 2-0 in the first leg of their Malaysia Cup round of 16 tie at the Manjung Stadium on Sunday (Jan 18).
Coached by former player Syamsul Saad, the Seladang, who have won the cup eight times with the last being in 2018, struck early in the 11th minute through Ahmad Daniel Hakimi Ahmad Azmil, who capitalised on a swift counter-attack.
The playmaker kept his composure to beat Kuala Lumpur goalkeeper Quincy Kammeraad in a one-on-one situation after latching onto a superb through pass from captain and centreback Kamal Arif Azrai Shakimar.
Kuala Lumpur pushed hard for an equaliser but were repeatedly frustrated by Perak’s disciplined defensive display.
Kamal and leftback Hafizy Daniel Mohd Termizi led the resistance with crucial blocks and robust challenges, while Nigerian defender Aliyu Abubakar made several vital clearances.
Despite being under pressure for long spells, the hosts doubled their advantage against the run of play in the 54th minute. Defender Fadhil Mohd Azmi rose highest to head home a free-kick delivery from Hakimi.
The tie, however, remains finely poised. Kuala Lumpur, the 2021 Malaysia Cup champions, will look to mount a comeback in the second leg at the Cheras Football Stadium on Jan 25.
