PETALING JAYA: From the fourth tier to the Malaysia Cup semi-finals, Kuching City’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable.
The side coached by Aidil Sharin Sahak defeated Brunei 3-1 in the quarter-final, second leg at the Sarawak State Stadium in Petra Jaya on Saturday to seal a 6-2 aggregate victory.
It marks a stunning milestone for the club, formed just 11 years ago and once competing in the People’s Football League, who now stand among the last four teams for the first time, chasing one of Asia’s oldest trophies.
Awaiting them are 33-time champions Selangor, who advanced after brushing aside Negri Sembilan 6-1 on aggregate.
For Aidil, however, the focus remains firmly on his own team, as this marks the highest achievement in Kuching City’s history since entering the Malaysian League.
As such, he is not looking too far ahead, with the Malaysia Cup semi-finals only set to take place in April, about a month from now.
Ironically, Kuching will take on Selangor in the Super League on Feb 22, a match that could offer an early glimpse of what to expect in their Malaysia Cup semi-final meeting.
“We have created history by reaching the Malaysia Cup semi-finals, something Kuching have never done before. We are taking it one game at a time. Against Selangor, we know they are a big team.
“It won’t be easy, especially if we play at the Petaling Jaya Stadium. We know they are unbeaten in five matches, so this will be another big challenge for us.
“From here, we need to analyse many aspects of our game and see how we can approach the match against Selangor,” said Aidil in a post match interview.
Kuching’s goals came courtesy of Cameroonian striker Ronald Ngah, Petrus Shitembi, and new signing Gabriel Palmero, while Brunei managed a consolation through Hakeme Yazid Said in the 54th minute.
Aidil said he made a slight tactical adjustment against Brunei and was relieved to see it pay off in convincing fashion.
“I’m very happy for players like Jordan Mintah, who has not been in the starting line-up for a while.
“Ronald is still carrying some injuries, but he kept going, contributed and scored.
“I’m very, very pleased with all the players, from the back right up to the front,” added a beaming Aidil.
