JDT Head Coach Xisco Munoz Credits Historic 109-Match Unbeaten Run to 12 Years of Sustained Vision and Investment

ISKANDAR PUTERI, Aug 22 — Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) head coach Xisco Munoz has described the club’s historic 109-match unbeaten run as the culmination of 12 years of sustained institutional development, strategic investment, and unyielding belief in its overarching vision.

Speaking after the Southern Tigers secured a 3-3 draw turned 3-0 victory over Kuching City FC in the Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Cup at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium last night, the Spanish tactician emphasized that JDT’s dominance was built on patient foundational work rather than immediate success.

“First of all, what I have in my mind is how difficult it is to arrive at this level. I think about 12 years ago when the boss took over the club, how he wanted to improve the club, develop all sports in Johor and how it was possible to arrive at this historic night,” Munoz told reporters at the post-match press conference, expressing gratitude to the club’s leadership. “Boss, thank you for what you are doing because it is special. What he is doing for all our families allows us to enjoy this type of project.”

Analyzing the cup tie, Munoz noted that Kuching City presented a stern challenge despite the final scoreline. JDT held a narrow 1-0 advantage at the break before hitting two rapid-fire goals in two minutes during the second half to put the match beyond reach.

While pleased with JDT’s absolute control during the opening 25 minutes, Munoz identified areas requiring tactical refinement as the team regains its competitive sharpness following the pre-season break, particularly in managing phases when possession is lost.

Munoz also praised the inclusion of four local players in the starting lineup, framing it as a critical initiative to elevate the overall quality of the Malaysian Football League (MFL) while providing elite pathways for young local talent. JDT will now prioritize recovery ahead of their upcoming Super League fixture against Kelantan, followed by a clash against PDRM.

Conversely, Kuching City head coach Aidil Sharin Sahak characterized the defeat as a valuable learning experience, praising his squad’s resilience in a high-intensity environment.

Congratulating JDT on their victory, Aidil acknowledged that Kuching City faced significant headwinds entering the fixture, including key player absences, incomplete match fitness, lack of high-intensity pre-season matches, and stadium renovation delays in Sarawak. Kuching City will now focus on correcting defensive errors ahead of consecutive away fixtures against Kuala Lumpur and Kelantan.

-NMT