DPMM to face JDT in first Malaysian FA Cup semi-final
DPMM coach Jamie McAllister is prioritising defensive discipline, while JDT's Xisco Munoz is considering changes to his line-up.
Brunei's DPMM will host five-time champions Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) at Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in the opening leg of their Malaysian FA Cup semi-final. It is DPMM's first appearance at this stage of the competition.
DPMM head coach Jamie McAllister said his players needed to address defensive weaknesses and aim for a clean sheet to keep the contest alive for the return leg. He also hoped a large home crowd would attend.
JDT won the teams' most recent meeting 3–0. McAllister acknowledged the challenge posed by opponents who have gone unbeaten in the league for four years.
JDT head coach Xisco Munoz said DPMM's deep defensive approach and ability to move into attack made them difficult away opponents. He was considering rotating his squad but stressed that incoming players needed to contribute more than those they replaced.
JDT have scored 28 league goals this season without conceding. They have also won the FA Cup in four successive seasons, with their most recent triumph coming through a 5–0 victory over Sabah in Bukit Jalil. DPMM previously won the Brunei FA Cup in 2004 and 2022.
