Kelantan Red Warriors FC secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over league leaders Selangor FC II in the 2025/26 A1 Semi-Pro League, thanks to a late goal from star striker Emmanuel Mbarga.
Despite a slow start, the hosts created the first opening when Zuasyraf Zulkiefle’s long-range effort was safely gathered by Selangor FC II goalkeeper Azeem Izhar. The visitors came close in the 15th minute through Abdul Rahman Daud, but Shafiq Afifi produced an excellent reflex save to deny the forward.
Under pressure from Saiful Nizam Ab Khamis’ side, KRWFC’s defense, led by Latiff Suhaimi, remained resolute, ensuring the scoreline stayed level heading into halftime.
Second Half Drama
The tempo increased after the break as both teams traded attacking moves. KRWFC almost took the lead in the 58th minute when a clever lofted pass from Zuasyraf Zulkiefle found Rizuan Muda, but his shot went agonizingly wide with the goalkeeper beaten.
Selangor FC II came close to scoring themselves through Abdul Rahman Daud and Haykal Danish, but both were denied again by the outstanding Shafiq Afifi between the posts.
Mbarga’s Winning Moment
With the match heading towards a draw, the breakthrough finally arrived in the third minute of stoppage time. Substitute Muhaimin Izzudin initiated the move before Mazwan Che Mat spotted Mbarga’s intelligent run into the box. The Cameroonian striker made no mistake, smashing the ball past Azeem Izhar to spark wild celebrations among nearly 1,000 Red Warriors fans in attendance.
The victory lifted Kelantan Red Warriors FC to sixth place in the standings with 29 points from 16 matches, while Selangor FC II remain top of the table with 36 points.
A crucial win for Irfan Bakti’s men as they continue to build momentum in their chase for a top-four finish.
GOMO KELATE GOMO
