Kota Kinabalu: Sabah FC continued its pre-season preparations on a high note after clinching a convincing 3-0 victory against Brunei club, Kasuka FC, in a friendly match held at the Likas Stadium Sunday night.
New import player Gonzalo Di Renzo set the tone for their dominance as he found the net with a header just two minutes into the game.
An own goal from a Kasuka FC player further solidified Sabah FC’s lead in the second half, before another import Park Jungbin added the third in the 71st minute from a pass by Darren Lok.
Muhd ArzizTeam manager Muhd Arziz Afizy Rumsani expressed satisfaction with the result, emphasising its importance as part of their pre-season strategy focused on building player compatibility ahead of the new MFL season.
“We have made significant progress, and we are preparing the squad thoroughly for the new season,” he said.
The team will depart for Bali today (August 11), where they will participate in the Dewata Challenge Series 2026.
Sabah FC are set to face off against the Indonesian giants, Bali United, on August 13, and Persib Bandung on August 15.
Arziz noted that the pre-season camp in Bali is crucial for further enhancing team synergy before the season opener against Star City FC on August 23.
On the surprise appearance of assistant coach Alto Linus as a substitute late in the match, he clarified that it was done only to meet player substitution requirements and he will not be officially registered as part of the team’s roster for the upcoming season.
He also reached out to Rhinos’ supporters, urging them to provide strong backing in the new season.
“We expect strong support from all Sabah FC supporters in this 2026/2027 season. Their continued support will add strength and spirit to the team,” he said.
