PETALING JAYA: Barely two months after arriving in Johor, Marcus Guilherme is already making his presence felt at Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT).
The Brazilian winger scored the decisive goal in JDT’s 1-0 win over Vissel Kobe at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, sealing the Southern Tigers’ place in the AFC Champions League Elite knockout stage.
It was a significant moment for Guilherme, who joined the club just six weeks ago and is still settling into his new surroundings.
Operating in his preferred role on the wing, the 30-year-old showed composure to confidently score the solitary goal in the 73rd minute.
“I’m very happy with the goal and the victory. We fought hard together as a team,” he said.
“I want to say thank you to the JDT fans because the atmosphere in the stadium tonight was incredible.
“We fought as one and we deserved this win.”
Roared on by a sold-out home crowd, JDT matched Kobe stride for stride before Guilherme made his moment count.
Lurking on the flank, he timed his run to perfection before rifling home the winner, sending the Johor faithful into raptures.
While his goal will dominate the headlines, Guilherme’s tireless display highlighted his versatility.
Asked whether he prefers playing as an all-out winger or as a striker, he admitted the flank still feels like home.
“In other games, I have played as a striker, which was a newer experience for me. But today I played as a winger, which is the position I’ve played most of my career,” he explained.
“I know the movements well, when to go forward and when to track back.”
That work ethic has quickly endeared him to teammates and supporters alike.
“I always do my best for my teammates. I love to run and work hard; I told the staff when I arrived that I’m here to give my all,” he said.
