Domestic football focus shifts to the MFL Challenge Cup final as Sabah FC prepares to take on Penang FC in the first leg this Saturday at the City Stadium in George Town. Both teams view this final as a vital opportunity to secure silverware in what has been a challenging season. Despite mid-season struggles and the unexpected departure of key players and officials, Sabah FC is determined to use this trophy as a "silver lining" for their campaign. 

Penang FC, currently sitting just one spot above Sabah in the league standings, will have the home ground advantage for the opening encounter. Fans are anticipating a tightly contested match between two sides that have shown resilience to reach the final stage of the competition. The outcome of this first leg will be crucial in setting the tone for the return match in Kota Kinabalu. 

The match also serves as a platform for local players to prove their worth ahead of the 2026 Malaysia League's next phase. For Sabah FC, a victory would provide much needed momentum and help appease a fanbase that has weathered a season of significant internal changes. Both clubs are expected to field their strongest available lineups to gain an early advantage in the two legged final.