Penang: DPMM FC spoiled Penang FC's hopes of opening their 2026/2027 Super League campaign with a win after edging the hosts 1-0 at the City Stadium here today. Miguel Angelo Agostinho Oliveira was the difference, scoring the only goal in the 64th minute to hand the Bruneian side three valuable points in their opening match.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the visitors came close to breaking the deadlock in the sixth minute when Brazilian striker Dalberto Luan Belo's header rattled the crossbar. Penang thought they had taken the lead two minutes later through new Filipino signing Javier Augustine Gayoso, but the effort was ruled out for offside. Penang faced a setback just before half-time when Muhammad Fazly Mazlan was sent off in the 44th minute after a VAR review confirmed his foul on Miguel Oliveira.
DPMM FC had a goal by Dalberto ruled out for offside in first-half added time. Penang were also denied when Faith Friday Obilor's effort was disallowed for a foul on the visiting goalkeeper. Despite being a man down, Penang came out with greater urgency after the break and created several opportunities, but DPMM FC eventually broke through when Miguel Oliveira struck to put the visitors ahead.
The visitors were also reduced to 10 men in the 72nd minute when defender Tommy Mawat Bada was shown a second yellow card, restoring numerical parity between the two sides. The match became increasingly tense towards the final whistle, with DPMM FC head coach James McAllister also booked in the 84th minute. Penang, desperate for an equaliser, threw everything forward in the closing stages and created several chances, but could not find a way past DPMM's defence.
Speaking after the match, Penang FC head coach Wan Rohaimi Wan Ismail said Muhammad Fazly's dismissal disrupted his team's rhythm and forced them to adopt a more cautious approach. He noted that it was a professional foul that affected their game plan, resulting in a more defensive stance that allowed DPMM FC to increase pressure.
Wan Rohaimi also mentioned that playing with 10 men in hot conditions impacted his players' concentration and mentality, although he praised them for still creating several chances despite failing to convert them. Meanwhile, McAllister described the victory as three important points after a difficult encounter, saying he was pleased with his players' discipline and character in defending their lead.
McAllister reflected on the game, stating it was challenging, especially playing against 10 men, but acknowledged the team's well-worked goal and credited Penang for their efforts.