JDT Beat Buriram United 2-1,But Thai Giants Advance to Shopee Cup Final on Aggregate

KUALA LUMPUR, May , 2026 — Johor Darul Ta’zim produced a spirited and courageous performance to defeat Buriram United 2-1 in the second leg of the Shopee Cup 2025/26 semi-final, but their comeback was ultimately not enough as the Thai side advanced to the final with a 4-3 aggregate victory after extra time.

The match at Chang Arena, Buriram, delivered one of the most dramatic encounters of the tournament, featuring a late first-half penalty, a second-half equaliser on aggregate, and a decisive extra-time strike that shattered JDT’s hopes of reaching the final.

Having lost 3-1 in the first leg in Johor, JDT entered the second leg needing a near-perfect performance to overturn the deficit — and they came agonisingly close.

First Half: JDT Strike Late to Ignite Hope

JDT started the match with intensity and attacking urgency, pressing high and attempting to unsettle Buriram early in front of their home supporters.

However, the Thai champions remained compact defensively and absorbed early pressure well, limiting clear chances in the opening stages.

The breakthrough finally came deep into first-half stoppage time when JDT were awarded a penalty after a challenge inside the box.

⚽ Bérgson da Silva (45+9’) (Penalty)
The Brazilian striker kept his composure and converted confidently, giving JDT a crucial lead and reducing the aggregate deficit, sending the match into halftime with renewed belief for the visitors.

Second Half: Marcos Guilherme Levels Aggregate Score

JDT returned from the break with even greater determination, knowing one more goal would completely change the tie.

Their persistence paid off in the 62nd minute when a well-worked attacking move found Marcos Guilherme, who finished clinically to make it 2-0 on the night.

At that moment, the aggregate score stood at 3-3, and JDT had completed a remarkable comeback to level the tie.

The momentum had clearly shifted toward the Malaysian side, with Buriram suddenly under heavy pressure and struggling to regain control.

Extra Time: Buriram Strike Back in Decisive Moment

With both teams tied on aggregate after 90 minutes, the semi-final moved into extra time, where tension reached its peak.

Despite JDT pushing forward in search of another breakthrough, Buriram managed to deliver the decisive blow.

⚽ Kingsley Schindler (98’)
The German-Ghanaian winger scored in the 98th minute, restoring Buriram’s aggregate advantage and sending shockwaves through the JDT camp.

That goal proved to be the turning point, as JDT were forced to chase the game once again.

Late Drama and Relentless Pressure

After the goal, JDT threw everything forward in search of an equaliser that would take the match to penalties.

Buriram, despite moments of discomfort, defended with discipline and resilience, protecting their aggregate lead under intense pressure.

As the match progressed, fatigue and tension became increasingly evident, with both sides battling physically and emotionally in a high-stakes contest.

JDT continued to press until the final whistle but were unable to find the crucial third goal.

Despite losing the second leg 2-1, Buriram United secured a 4-3 aggregate victory, booking their place in the Shopee Cup 2025/26 final.

The Thai giants once again demonstrated their experience in managing high-pressure knockout ties, surviving a fierce comeback attempt from one of Southeast Asia’s strongest clubs.

They will now continue their campaign for regional glory in the final stage of the competition.

For JDT, the elimination is a painful one, especially after producing a strong performance away from home and coming within one goal of completing a historic comeback.

However, their performance earned praise for resilience, tactical discipline, and fighting spirit against a top regional opponent.

The Southern Tigers leave the competition with heads held high after one of their most intense knockout matches in recent seasons.