Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) head coach Xisco Munoz expressed immense pride after the "Southern Tigers" claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Japan's Vissel Kobe last night at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium. This crucial win in the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) East Zone league stage officially secures JDT's place in the round-of-16. Munoz described the atmosphere at the stadium as "magical" and credited the fans for helping the team maintain a strong mentality throughout the match. 

The winning goal was scored by Marcos Guilherme, who showed great sharpness to find the net after the team earlier had two goals disallowed for offside. Munoz specifically lauded the squad's steady development and their ability to keep a clean sheet against a top-tier Japanese side. This result marks a significant step forward for the club on the continental stage, providing them with a valuable advantage as they head into the knockout rounds. 

In other football news, local club Terengganu FC (TFCSB) is reportedly working to settle outstanding salary payments to former player Ivan Mamut to avoid a potential FIFA transfer ban. Additionally, in Sarawak, Lescott FC has been crowned champions of the Serian CNY football carnival after defeating Lans United 2-0 in the final held on Tuesday.