PETALING JAYA — Selangor FC star Faisal Halim believes the Charity Shield clash against Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) will serve as more than just the traditional curtain raiser for the Malaysian League season—it will be a vital confidence booster as the Red Giants set their sights on a stronger campaign.
Faisal, affectionately known as Mickey, described the high-stakes opener as the perfect opportunity to build momentum and gauge the team’s readiness ahead of a demanding season both at home and abroad.
“We’ve been preparing for over two months. All the players are ready. We’ll go there aiming for a positive result—it’ll be a balanced game,” he told reporters.
“In football, nothing is impossible. We’ll give it our all and leave the rest to Allah. Who knows, it might be our fortune, insya-Allah.
“This is just the beginning for Selangor. We want to start on the right foot. Even if things don’t go our way, we must keep fighting.”
Faisal was speaking after launching the publicity roadshow for the Sultan of Selangor’s Cup (TSSC), scheduled to take place on September 27 at Stadium Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur.
Selangor will face a packed calendar this season, including domestic competitions and the Shopee Cup, alongside international commitments such as the AFC Champions League 2 (ACL2).
Faisal acknowledged the physical and mental toll such a schedule demands but said it was part and parcel of the players’ responsibility.
“Previously, we only had the Super League locally. Last year, we experienced the ACL2, and the difference was clear—less rest, long-distance travel. Now, with the Shopee Cup added, it’s even tougher,” he said.
“Our first match will be in Buriram. We’ll fly to Bangkok, then take a five-hour bus ride. That’s not easy. Some players may not enjoy that—travel, a day of rest, then a match, followed by another right after we return.”
He emphasised the importance of squad depth and individual preparedness, urging every player—starter or substitute—to stay ready at all times.
Meanwhile, TSSC chairman and Selangor team manager Tan Sri Abd Karim said the annual event was more than just a match—it was a tribute to Malaysian football’s golden era, especially the storied rivalry between Selangor and Singapore, who faced off in 23 Malaysia Cup finals, and Selangor won 12 of them.
The 21st edition of the Sultan of Selangor’s Cup will open with a veterans’ clash between Selangor and Singapore, followed by the main event featuring the Selangor Selection and Singapore Selection teams.
Selangor have lifted the trophy 10 times (2001, 2003, 2005, 2008, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2018, 2019 and 2024), while Singapore have claimed it on seven occasions (2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2016 and 2017).
The two sides were declared joint winners in 2004. — August 2, 2025