Liga Super 2026: The Battle for the Top Four and Beyond

The 2025/2026 Liga Super Malaysia season has officially come to a dramatic close, leaving fans with plenty to discuss. While Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) once again asserted their absolute authority over the league, the race for the remaining spots—and the coveted qualification for continental football—has never been more intense.

JDT’s Unrivaled Dominance

It is impossible to talk about the 2026 season without highlighting JDT. Finishing the campaign with an undefeated record of 23 wins and 1 draw, the Southern Tigers have set a standard that remains unmatched in the region. With 70 points and a staggering goal difference of +107, JDT continues to lead the way, securing their spot in the AFC Champions League Elite. Their performance this season, including a 14-goal haul in a single match against Kelantan, proves they are currently in a league of their own.

The Rise of Kuching City

The standout success story of the 2026 season is undoubtedly Kuching City FC. By securing second place with 53 points, they have firmly established themselves as a new force in Malaysian football. Conceding only 14 goals throughout the entire 24-game season, their defensive discipline was the backbone of their success. This consistency earned them a well-deserved ticket to the AFC Champions League Two, marking a historic milestone for the club and the state of Sarawak.

Selangor FC and the Fight for Consistency

Selangor FC fought valiantly, finishing third with 52 points—just a single point behind Kuching City. Under the guidance of Kim Pan-gon, the Red Giants showcased attacking flair, scoring 59 goals. However, inconsistency in pivotal matches prevented them from challenging the top two spots more aggressively. For the fans, this season is a sign of progress, and expectations for the upcoming campaign will be significantly higher.

The Tight Race for the Fourth Spot

The battle for fourth place was a nail-biter until the final whistle of the season. Kuala Lumpur City F.C. ultimately claimed the spot with 43 points. The competition was fierce, with teams like Terengganu FC and Immigration F.C. pushing hard throughout the final weeks.

• KL City: Showcased resilience, finishing with 43 points.
• Terengganu FC: Managed to hold onto 5th place with 36 points despite a difficult mid-season.
• Immigration F.C.: A surprise package, finishing 6th in a very respectable debut season at the top level.

What to Expect in 2026/2027

With the season now wrapped up, the focus shifts to the transfer window and tactical preparations for the next cycle. The gap between the top three and the rest of the league is a major talking point for the Malaysian Football League (MFL). As clubs look to strengthen their squads, fans are hopeful that the 2026/2027 season will bring even more competitive matches, particularly as teams look to bridge the gap and challenge the established order.