Chelsea, JDT to clash as two champions meet at SSI

The Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Johor Bahru will host a highly anticipated international friendly match between English Premier League giants Chelsea FC and Malaysian Super League champions Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT). The game, scheduled for Sunday, marks a historic meeting between one of England's most successful clubs and Malaysia's most dominant football team.

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What is most gratifying is that wherever we go around the world, we always receive support from the fans. They are willing to make an effort to come and watch us play.

This encounter is more than just a pre-season friendly; it offers thousands of local fans the chance to witness world-class players in action and further solidifies Malaysia's position as a host for international football events. Chelsea is visiting Johor as the final stop on their APAC Tour 2026, following high-profile matches elsewhere in Asia.

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I know some individuals from Johor Darul Ta’zim including Luis Garcia and we can’t wait to play in Johor.

Chelsea, managed by Xabi Alonso, is expected to field a competitive squad, with players like Danny Welbeck, Geovany Quenda, and Joao Pedro anticipated to feature. Alonso expressed his eagerness to experience the passionate atmosphere of Johor's football scene. "What is most gratifying is that wherever we go around the world, we always receive support from the fans. They are willing to make an effort to come and watch us play," he said.

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Playing against a club like Chelsea is an excellent opportunity for our players and our club, not just in terms of football but also in expanding the JDT brand.

For JDT, the match presents a valuable opportunity to gauge their capabilities against elite global competition ahead of challenging domestic and Asian campaigns. JDT's head coach, Xisco Munoz, views the game as an excellent platform for his players to gain experience and enhance the JDT brand. "Playing against a club like Chelsea is an excellent opportunity for our players and our club, not just in terms of football but also in expanding the JDT brand," Munoz stated. "We have great respect for all their achievements, but we will approach this match with full confidence and ambition to showcase our best performance."

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We have great respect for all their achievements, but we will approach this match with full confidence and ambition to showcase our best performance. Playing in a pre-season match in front of our own fans makes this opportunity even more special.