Melaka: Melaka FC is still looking for their rhythm after the opening match of the 2025-2026 Super League ended in a 1-1 draw against Penang FC at Hang Jebat Stadium, Krubong here, last night.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, head coach K. Devan admitted that their import players needed time to build compatibility with the squad which was overhauled for this season. He noted that the first half was less aggressive, with too much space given to Penang FC to attack. Several chances created by the opponents were due to defensive weaknesses and imperfect counterattacks.

“In the first half I saw this team could have played better, but we were less aggressive, gave a lot of space to Penang FC, and the players’ compatibility was also still lacking. Besides, we faced communication problems with the Brazilian players. For me, experience was also a factor because all the imported players were playing in the Super League for the first time, compared to experienced opponents, while local players came mostly from A1 League,” he said at a press conference after the match here last night.

Earlier in the action, the visiting team took the lead in the 28th minute through a header by Dylan Christopher Charles Wenzek Halls before Brazilian import striker Juan Douglas Teles Da Silva equalised in the 69th minute for Melaka to tie Penang 1-1.

Devan further commented that Melaka FC still did not have a ‘leader’ on the field and hoped that the problem could be resolved soon. The 64-year-old manager said that although performance improved in the second half, the team needs to build confidence and adapt to his tactics with the courage to win.

“They have only been together for less than a month, and this weekend we will meet Penang FC again for the FA Cup, and we have to win at home. The style of play will definitely be different compared to the league match… if we want to continue competing, we need to win and take advantage of the home ground as much as possible,” he said.

Meanwhile, Penang FC head coach, Wan Rohaimi Wan Ismail, admitted that his team’s style of play is improving, but they have to address several weaknesses. “Many things need to improve even though this is only the second match. We need our first win either in the Super League or the FA Cup to give the team a boost,” he said.

The two teams will meet again at Hang Jebat Stadium, this Sunday, for the FA Cup round of 16.