By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 18: Kuching City FC (KCFC) added another chapter to its history books by qualifying for next year’s AFC Champions League Two after previously reaching the Malaysia Cup final for the first time.
In a news report from the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas), KCFC finished the 2025-2026 Super League season in second place with 53 points—one point behind their closest rivals, Selangor FC, who secured 52 points.
In their final league match of the season, KCFC recorded a narrow 1-0 victory over Kuala Lumpur City FC at the State Stadium on Sunday (May 17) to confirm their place on the Asian stage alongside league champions Johor Darul Ta’zim.
Playing in front of more than 10,000 home supporters, KCFC started aggressively and managed to create several dangerous attempts on goal.
The relentless pressure finally paid off in the 29th minute when the hosts scored through a set-piece from a throw-in, finished by KCFC’s prolific striker, Jerome Mpacko Etame.
Entering the second half, KCFC intensified the pressure in search of a second goal while successfully containing the visitors’ every attempt to mount a comeback.
In the 48th minute, the stadium erupted again when Yuki Tanigawa headed the ball into the net from a corner kick, but referee Muhammad Usaid Jamal disallowed the goal after spotting a foul inside the penalty box.
Despite being denied a second goal, Aidil Sharin’s men continued to display high fighting spirit and solid defensive discipline.
Two golden opportunities midway through the second half nearly added to the visitors’ misery, but both chances went unfinished.
The final whistle ultimately confirmed a historic night for Kuching City FC as Jerome’s solitary goal proved enough to secure a prestigious victory, maintain second place in the league, and mark the club’s greatest achievement yet with qualification to the Asian stage. — DayakDaily
