JDT Coach Praises Team Character, Bergson Hat-trick In Big Victory

ISKANDAR PUTERI, Sept 25 (Bernama) — Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) head coach Xisco Muñoz hailed his players’ consistency and character after the Southern Tigers roared back in the second half to crush Bangkok United FC 4-0 in their ASEAN Club Championship 2025/2026 Group B clash at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium tonight.

Muñoz admitted the first half was a testing period as both sides were locked 0-0, with Bangkok United pressing hard through their attacking flanks but however, he said JDT regrouped and showed greater composure after the interval.

“In the first half we needed to understand the opponent. Sometimes football is like that. But once we found solutions, I’m very happy because the team produced an amazing performance with a very high level of commitment,” he told reporters.

Brazilian striker Bergson da Silva was the toast of JDT with a hat-trick, netting in the 45th, 72nd and 91st minutes, while Joe Figuredo added the other goal in the 51st minute.

The victory put JDT at the top of Group B with six points from two matches before travelling to Phnom Penh to face PKR Svay Rieng FC at Morodok Techno National Stadium on Dec 4.

Muñoz praised Bergson’s contribution, describing him as a “big force” for the team.

 “Bergson is scoring goals, but I know he can give us even more. He works hard every day and has the right values for the team. He’s not only a goalscorer but also a great partner for his teammates,” he said.

The Spaniard also commended midfielder Antonio for his all-round display, noting his experience and ability to balance attack and defence provided stability throughout the match.

Meanwhile, Bergson said the victory belongs to the team as all of them cooperated very well in the match.

“For me it’s not about the news when I score or don’t score. My first thought on the pitch is to help my teammates. Whether I score three goals or none, my mindset is always the same, to keep helping the team,” he said.

Bangkok United head coach Totchtawan Sripan conceded his side lost control after conceding the first goal.

“Once we started the second half, we conceded and the whole picture changed. The mentality, fitness and confidence of the players were factors, but we must admit JDT had the upper hand,” he said.

He added that JDT’s relentless pressing punished his team’s mistakes but vowed to bounce back.

“We still have three more matches before the break. With five competitions in one season it is a heavy schedule, but we will try our best to manage it,” he said.

— BERNAMA