Johor Darul Ta'zim FC 2–2 Qatar SC: Pre-Season Friendly Ends in Entertaining Draw

In an action-packed pre-season friendly played in the early hours of 31 July 2026, Malaysian giants Johor Darul Ta'zim FC (JDT) and Qatari side Qatar SC played out a pulsating 2–2 draw. The match, held behind closed doors as part of both clubs' summer preparatory campaigns, offered fans a glimpse of the tactical adjustments and new signings ahead of the upcoming domestic seasons.

Match Overview

Johor Darul Ta'zim, the dominant force in Malaysian football with multiple Super League titles, used the fixture to test their depth against a Qatar SC side that finished mid-table in the Qatar Stars League last term. The Southern Tigers, known for their fluid attacking play, started brightly and took control early, but Qatar SC showed resilience to claw back twice.

Key Moments

• 12' – JDT opener: A swift counter-attack saw winger Arif Aiman cut inside from the right and fire a low drive into the far corner, giving Qatar SC goalkeeper Babacar Niasse no chance.
• 34' – Qatar SC equalise: Veteran striker Sebastián Soria capitalised on a defensive mix-up, poking home from close range after a corner was only half-cleared.
• 67' – JDT retake lead: Substitute Bergson da Silva showed his poacher's instinct, turning in a precise cross from left-back La'Vere Corbin-Ong to make it 2–1.
• 82' – Late drama: Qatar SC's Brazilian playmaker Wanderson curled a delightful free-kick over the wall and into the top corner, securing a share of the spoils.

Tactical Battle

JDT dominated possession with their signature 4-3-3 shape, pressing high and looking to exploit wide areas. Qatar SC, under new coach Youssef Safri, sat deeper in a compact 4-4-2 and hit on the break. The equaliser came from a set-piece vulnerability, an area JDT will look to tighten before their league campaign begins.

Standout Players

• Arif Aiman (JDT): The Malaysian international was a constant threat with his dribbling and direct running, capping his performance with a goal.
• Wanderson (Qatar SC): The Brazilian midfielder dictated the tempo in the second half and scored a stunning free-kick to rescue a draw.
• Bergson da Silva (JDT): The Brazilian striker continues to be a reliable finisher and made an immediate impact off the bench.

Season Impact

For Johor Darul Ta'zim, this friendly provided valuable minutes for fringe players and a test against a physically strong opponent. Qatar SC will be encouraged by their fighting spirit and ability to recover from deficits. Both sides are expected to finalise their pre-season schedules with one or two more friendlies before their respective league openers in August.