KUCHING FC are eager to make an impression in their first-ever Malaysia Cup appearance.
The Sarawak-based club confirmed their Malaysia Cup spot by edging Johor Darul Ta’zim II (JDT II) 2-1 in Sunday’s Premier League match at the State Stadium in Kuching.
Bryan Anicezio (22nd minute) and Yuta Suzuki (57th) netted for Kuching while JDT II replied through Fernando Rodriguez (49th).
Kuching are sixth in the standings with 13 points with one match to go and will join champions Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Kelantan in the Malaysia Cup.
The fifth Premier League representative in the Malaysia Cup, which starts on Oct 17, will be decided on the final day of the season between Negri Sembilan, Kelantan United and UKM FC.
Kuching assistant coach Ahmad Nurfaizal Patrick Abdullah said: “It is a fantastic achievement to be among the 16 teams in the Malaysia Cup.
“We will have the opportunity to play against the best teams in the country.
“Our goal is to give the fancied teams a tough time,” said Nurfaizal.
The club have also achieved their target of finishing top eight in the Premier League.
“We hope to build from this and do well in the Malaysia Cup,” he added