PETALING JAYA: Petrus Shitembi is widely recognised for his vision and lethal left foot, but on the biggest stage, the Kuching City talisman proved his “weaker” side could be just as decisive.
The 33-year-old Namibian international emerged the hero as Kuching City edged Selangor 1-0 in the second leg of their Malaysia Cup semi-final at the State Stadium in Kuching on Saturday.
Shitembi’s right-foot strike in the 31st minute following a pass from Gabriel Nistelrooy, sealed a 2-1 aggregate victory and a place in a historic final. They face Johor Darul Ta’zim on May 23.
Forced onto his right by Selangor’s defence, he unleashed a superb long-range effort that beat goalkeeper Kalamullah Al-Hafiz, stunning the visitors.
The final whistle sparked jubilant scenes, particularly among Kuching City’s African contingent, including Ronald Ngah Wanja, Moses Atede, Jerome Mpacko Etame and James Okwuosa, as they celebrated to Afrobeat tunes with their match-winner.
Shitembi, who has played for his nation 79 times, was on cloud nine.
“I’m extremely proud of the players, the technical team, the management and our fans,” said Shitembi, who has one goal and three assists from six games in the Malaysia Cup.
“This ranks among my greatest successes in football. It’s especially meaningful because I joined when the club began their transformation project, and to see how far we’ve come is a privilege.”
He also praised Selangor for their resilience despite being reduced to nine men following red cards to Safuwan Baharuddin and Mukhairi Ajmal Mahadi.
“They are a massive institution with quality players. Even after going two men down and a goal behind, they kept fighting and pushed hard because they had nothing to lose,” he said.
Looking ahead, Shitembi believes Kuching City must stay grounded as they chase silverware.
“We take it one game at a time with full focus and commitment. It’s been a good season so far, but we can only judge it fully at the end. For now, we are grateful and proud, and we will give everything in the final.”
Kuching City coach Aidil Sharin reserved special praise for his playmaker, describing him as instrumental to the club’s rise.
“I think Petrus is incredible. When I brought him in, we knew he was a class player who could take Kuching City to another level,” said Aidil.
“He has shown it through his skill, leadership and encouragement.
“Even when carrying injuries, he continues to contribute and sets a great example for the younger players. In a big game like this, he stepped up and showed he is a big player.”
