Sri Pahang FC has emerged as one of the most inspiring stories of the Malaysia Cup 2025 season. With a strong tactical identity, passionate fan base, and a hunger for silverware, the team from Kuantan is set to challenge Johor Darul Ta’zim FC in the grand final at Bukit Jalil National Stadium on April 26, 2025.
In this article, we take a closer look at Sri Pahang’s journey to the final, their squad, key players, and the strengths that have made them one of the most dangerous teams in Malaysian football this season.
A Club with History and Ambition
Sri Pahang FC, formerly known as Pahang FA, is one of the most storied clubs in Malaysian football. Established in 1959, the club has won multiple domestic titles, including the Malaysia Cup, Malaysia Super League, and FA Cup. Their home ground, Darul Makmur Stadium, is a fortress known for its electrifying atmosphere.
Despite being underdogs in recent years, 2025 marks a turning point for the club, as they return to the final of the Malaysia Cup with renewed energy, discipline, and belief.
2025 Malaysia Cup Campaign: Defying Expectations
Few predicted that Sri Pahang would reach the final at the beginning of the season. However, with a mix of experienced leaders and rising talents, the team quickly made headlines by eliminating several top contenders in the knockout stages.
Key highlights of their Malaysia Cup 2025 journey include:
- A dramatic quarter-final win on penalties against Selangor FC
- A disciplined defensive performance in the semi-final second leg
- Tactical mastery from head coach, who has emphasized structured pressing and counter-attacking football
Their resilience, work ethic, and team unity have turned them into a serious contender for the title.
Squad Overview: Balance of Youth and Experience
The 2025 Sri Pahang squad is a well-balanced unit, combining seasoned professionals with exciting young prospects. The team plays with high intensity, often switching between a compact 4-4-2 and a fluid 3-5-2 formation depending on the opponent.
Key Players to Watch:
- Manuel Hidalgo – Forward: The team’s top scorer this season, known for his speed and clinical finishing inside the box.
- Asnan Ahmad – Central Midfield: The engine of the team, controlling the pace of the game and contributing with both assists and goals.
- Aleksandar Cvetkovic – Center Back: A defensive leader and aerial threat during set pieces, crucial in keeping clean sheets throughout the tournament.
- Zarif Irfan – Goalkeeper: The last line of defense, known for key saves during penalty shootouts and one-on-one situations.
Each of these players has played a vital role in Sri Pahang’s road to the final, and they will be expected to step up once again against JDT.
Tactics and Strengths
Sri Pahang’s strength lies in their tactical discipline and ability to adapt mid-game. Their pressing game disrupts opposition build-ups, while swift transitions allow them to catch teams off guard.
Key tactical strengths include:
- Solid defensive structure: Fewest goals conceded in the knockout rounds
- Fast counter-attacks: Utilizing speed on the flanks to stretch defenses
- Set-piece danger: Several goals from corners and free kicks this season
- Mental toughness: The team thrives under pressure, proven in knockout scenarios
Head coach has built a side that is hard to break down and lethal on the counter—a formula that could cause real problems for JDT in the final.
Fan Support and Club Spirit
Sri Pahang FC enjoys one of the most passionate fan bases in Malaysia. Supporters from Kuantan and beyond are expected to fill their section at Bukit Jalil, creating a sea of yellow and blue in the stands. The club’s connection with the local community adds emotional weight to their campaign, with players constantly praising the fans’ energy as a motivating factor.
Final Showdown: Can Sri Pahang Lift the Trophy?
Facing Johor Darul Ta’zim FC, arguably the most dominant Malaysian team of the last decade, will be Sri Pahang’s biggest challenge yet. However, the underdog tag may play in their favor. With nothing to lose and everything to gain, the Elephants will be aiming to make history.
A victory in the Malaysia Cup Final 2025 would mark a glorious return to the top for Sri Pahang FC and reward the fans who have stood by them through every high and low.
Follow Sri Pahang’s Journey
Stay tuned for more updates, player interviews, match previews, and expert predictions as Sri Pahang prepares for their biggest match in years.
Will Sri Pahang FC upset the giants and claim the Malaysia Cup? Make your prediction now.
