KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Football League (MFL) is cautious about ticket sales for the upcoming Malaysia Cup final between Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) and Sri Pahang FC, amid concerns over competing events at Kuala Lumpur Sports City on the same night.
The 98th edition of the final is set to take place at 9pm on April 26 at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium. However, it clashes with a live concert by rock icon Datuk Amy Search at Axiata Arena and a government-organised Madani Carnival, both within the KLSC vicinity.
Speaking to Scoop, newly appointed MFL chief executive officer Mohd Shazli Shaik Mohd said sales have been sluggish, with the league targeting 55% of total ticket sales by the end of this week.
“Everything is on track, and we’re preparing as best as we can for the final to proceed without any issues. We’re a bit sceptical about the turnout, mainly due to the concert and the government-organised carnival happening on the same day,” he said.
“Ticket sales started slow, though there’s been a gradual uptick recently. We’re optimistic about hitting 55% by week’s end.
“The organising committee is also meeting over the next few days to step up our promotional efforts and maximise sales. We’ll continue providing updates as matchday approaches.”
Despite the slow start, Shazli is confident that turnout could rival or surpass that of last year’s FA Cup final, which drew 80,350 fans as JDT defeated Selangor 6-1 on August 24.
“We believe ticket sales will pick up to 90% in the final days. With two strong teams competing, fans will definitely be excited to witness the final. We’re also beginning discussions with the police on security arrangements,” he added.
JDT secured their final spot after a 6-1 aggregate win over their semi-final opponents at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium on January 17, while Pahang advanced on a 3-2 aggregate after drawing the first leg 1-1 at Stadium Likas the next day.
Pahang last reached the Malaysia Cup final in 2014, where they edged JDT 5-3 on penalties after a 2-2 draw. – April 9, 2025