Pahang hold Kedah in 3-3 thriller, JDT beats Selangor 2-1

A Kedah attacker challenges Pahang goalkeeper Mohd Helmi Eliza Elias during their Malaysia Cup semi-finals first leg in the Darulaman Stadium in Alor Setar. The match ended in a 3-3 draw. - Bernama

PETALING JAYA: Pahang let their lead slip twice as they drew 3-3 to Kedah in the first leg of the Malaysia Cup semi-finals at the Darulaman Stadium in Alor Setar.

Midfielder Nor Azam Azih appeared to have given the Elephants a crucial away win with his 72nd minute strike but Mohd Zaquan Adha Abdul Razak equalised deep into added time to keep the score square in a pulsating encounter on Saturday (Oct 19) night.

Visitors Pahang had earlier taken the lead through goals from winger Wan Zaharulnizam Zakaria's opener in the 13th minute and Nigerian hitman Dickson Nwakaeme's spot kick in the 26th minute.

Kedah, stunned by Pahang's two goals, got back into the game with a brace by Spanish striker Fernando Rodriguez in the 32nd and 39th minutes.

The Red Eagles now face a tough task in the second leg of the semi-finals at the Darulmakmur Stadium in Kuantan on Oct 26.

Over in Johor Baru, Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) took the upper hand in their semi-finals after beating against Selangor 2-1 in the first leg at the Larkin Stadium.

Striker Syafiq Ahmad drew first blood for the Super League champions when he scored in the 15th minute followed by a piledriver from Argentinian midfielder Leandro Velazquez in the 49th minute.

However, Selangor have a precious away goal thanks to their Nigerian striker Ifedayo Olusegun, who scored in the 16th minute.

Both teams will face off again in the second-leg at the Shah Alam Stadium on Oct 26.