Spanish coach admits one thing after a tough draw against Nam Dinh

Coach Xisco Muñoz admitted that the game at Thien Truong Stadium on February 5 was very difficult.

After the 1-1 draw against Nam Dinh FC in the final round of group B in the Shopee Cup 2025/26, Johor Darul Ta’zim FC’s coach Xisco Muñoz described the match as a tough, balanced contest with a high level of technical quality.

According to the Spanish coach, both teams created dangerous chances throughout the 90 minutes, especially during quick transitions. He said the match was played at a high pace, was highly competitive, and accurately reflected the strength of both sides.

In this game, Nam Dinh took the lead in the first half after Van Vi scored on a rebound following a penalty awarded to the home team in the 33rd minute. Earlier, goalkeeper Nguyen Manh made a save that enabled Nam Dinh to launch a fast counterattack. In the second half, the V-League representative earned another penalty but failed to extend their lead.

Coach Xisco Muñoz particularly highlighted the role of goalkeeper Andoni Zubiaurre, who saved two penalties during the match. He considered this a key factor that helped Johor Darul Ta’zim FC maintain control and keep hopes alive for a favorable result.

The visitors’ efforts were rewarded in the 86th minute when Johor Darul Ta’zim FC was awarded a penalty after the ball touched a hand inside the box. From the spot, Bergson Silva successfully converted, securing the 1-1 draw.

According to Coach Xisco Muñoz, this result allowed Johor Darul Ta’zim FC to achieve their goal of qualifying for the Shopee Cup 2025/26 semi-finals.

On the other side, Coach Mauro expressed satisfaction with his players’ performance: “Today the team played very well. It’s not that we are extremely happy yet, because happiness comes with winning, although we created enough chances and even had penalty opportunities.”

Coach Mauro’s team will face Malaysia’s Selangor FC in the Shopee Cup 2025/26 semi-finals, while Johor Darul Ta’zim will meet Buriram United.