Southeast Asia Malaysia

Match Recap: JDT 1-1 Gyeongnam – AFC Champions League

Aiman Nazirmuddin

Football Tribe Malaysia

 

Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) made a breakthrough when they managed to draw against South Korea’s Gyeongnam FC in their inaugural Champions League campaign at the Tan Sri Dato Haji Hassan Yunos Stadium.

The day would become even more historic for the club as they became the first Malaysian side to earn points int he AFC Champions league group stage. Despite only managing a 1-1 draw, it is a game that will live long in the memories of JDT supporters. 

However, questions remain as to why the five-time Super League champion failed to get three full points despite plating so well and controlling the game from the first minute. Meanwhile, Gyeongnam were completely outplayed and dominated but for some wayward finishing and good goalkeeping from Lee Bum-Soo. 

Gyeongnam FC took an early lead through Kwak Tae-hwi in the 52nd minute. However, their advantage was eliminated by JDT when Diogo Luis Santo managed to equalise through a penalty kick in the 68th minute.

Despite failing to win all three points, JDT fans enjoyed a good performance from Johor Darul Ta’zim as they not only held Gyeongnam FC to a draw, but put in a performance that may have even warranted a historic win.