3 Malaysian naturalized players cause a sensation upon their return

Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) striker Bergson da Silva admitted that the return of 3 naturalized players brought important added value, contributing to the team’s 3-0 win against Shan United in the Group B round of the ASEAN Club Championship.

In this match, Hector Hevel and Joao Figueiredo each provided an assist, respectively setting up goals for Oscar Arribas and Bergson. Meanwhile, Jon Irazabal showed impressive form as a key pillar in the defense of the “Southern Tigers.”

According to Bergson, the presence of this trio came at the perfect time, especially as JDT was about to face a congested schedule with away matches in Vietnam in the ASEAN Club Championship, trips to Japan for the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE), alongside domestic league games in Malaysia all within one week.

According to Bharian, Bergson shared: “I’m very happy they could return to play with the team, especially Joao (Figueiredo). He is a smart player, and we can anticipate each other’s movements on the pitch. He even assisted me to score, and I’m truly honored to play alongside him. Their comeback brought a ‘tonic’ boost to the whole squad, because we understand they improve JDT both on and off the field.”

In the match against Shan United, JDT struggled to find a way through the opponent’s defense. However, after Bergson, the Brazilian striker, was brought on, the home team scored three goals within just 5 minutes.

Bergson also noted it was not easy facing a team that played deep defensive football. JDT had to work very hard to break through the well-organized defense of Shan United, coached by Han Win Aung, especially in the first half. Bergson concluded: “Additionally, we had to play under hot afternoon weather conditions. Although we are used to training at this time, the atmosphere during an official match is always very different.”