ISKANDAR PUTERI: Heberty Fernandes’ hat-trick helped defending champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) defeat Kuala Lumpur Rovers 3-0 in the first leg of the 2024/2025 Malaysia Cup round of 16 match at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium here today. JDT, playing as the visiting team against the A1 Semi-Pro League, quickly took the lead with Heberty’s free kick in the 26th minute.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Brazilian striker extended the lead with an acrobatic strike just three minutes later, following a pass from Corbin Ong. In the second half, Heberty completed his hat-trick with a long-range goal in the 71st minute.

KL Rovers nearly scored a consolation goal when Muhammad Izreen attempted a shot in the penalty box, but JDT’s goalkeeper Christian Abad Amat made a crucial save to maintain the clean sheet. Despite the absence of the suspended Arif Aiman Hanapi, Hector Bidoglio’s squad preserved their lead until the final whistle, securing a solid advantage for the return leg on November 30 at the same venue.

A
rif Aiman is serving a three-match suspension due to an altercation with Tommy Mawat during a Super League match against Perak FC on November 10. Originally, the match was scheduled to be held at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium, Cheras, but was moved to the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium at the request of KL Rovers.

In another Malaysia Cup fixture, Penang is set to host Kuching City at the City Stadium in Penang tomorrow.