Malaysia Cup: Where's the buzz? Muted build-up to JDT-Sri Pahang clash
Why the Malaysia Cup Final feels lackluster
SHAH ALAM - The Malaysia Cup final between Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) and Sri Pahang FC is just days away, yet the atmosphere leading up to the highly anticipated match at Bukit Jalil National Stadium has been unusually subdued.
Local football analyst Datuk Dr Pekan Ramli expressed his concern over the lack of energy and anticipation, describing the situation as rare and worrying for Malaysian football.
“In the past, when two teams made it to the final, it was not just their own supporters who were excited—fans of other teams were also eager to watch.
“But now, that is no longer the case and perhaps the interest has faded because many already expect which team will win, and that has affected the prestige of the match,” he said.
Even though Sri Pahang’s appearance in this season’s final marks their return after a long absence, Pekan pointed out that excitement among their supporters is still lacking.
“Even their own supporters do not seem particularly thrilled about watching the final,” he added.
Reports have also shown sluggish ticket sales for the final from both JDT’s and Sri Pahang’s quotas, further reinforcing the muted build-up.
Pekan believes the dwindling enthusiasm stems from the dominance of JDT in recent years, which has led to predictable outcomes and dampened the thrill of the competition.
“This kind of situation is uncommon and we can see that the aura is not the same as it was in past finals, especially before JDT’s era of dominance.
“During the early years of JDT’s dominance, the excitement was still very noticeable. But in recent years, regardless of who reaches the final against JDT, that excitement has faded.
“There is still time before the final takes place and I hope fans of both teams will make sure this final is a festive one,” he said.
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