Chelsea to face JDT in first-ever clash at Stadium Sultan Ibrahim

JOHOR BAHRU – Stadium Sultan Ibrahim will be the focus of the football world this Sunday when English Premier League (EPL) giants Chelsea FC take on Super League champions Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) in an international friendly.

The first-ever meeting between the two clubs is being billed as more than a routine pre-season fixture, bringing together one of England's most successful clubs and the most dominant side in Malaysian football history.

The match gives thousands of local fans the chance to watch world-class players in action on Johor soil, while strengthening Malaysia's standing as a host for international football events.

Chelsea arrive in Johor as the final stop of their 2026 APAC Tour, following high-profile outings including a match against Juventus at the Hong Kong Football Festival. Xabi Alonso's squad are scheduled to meet AC Milan in Jakarta before flying to Johor to complete final preparations for the 2026/27 EPL season.

Despite the friendly status, Chelsea are expected to field a competitive line-up, with players such as Danny Welbeck, Geovany Quenda and Joao Pedro remaining central to Alonso's plans.

"The best thing is that wherever we go around the world, we always receive support from the fans. They make the effort to come and watch us play," Alonso said.

"I know a few individuals from Johor Darul Ta'zim including Luis Garcia, and we can't wait to play in Johor," he added.

For JDT, the fixture is another important test ahead of demanding domestic and Asian campaigns. Southern Tigers head coach Xisco Munoz described facing Chelsea as an excellent learning opportunity.

"Facing a club like Chelsea is a very good opportunity for our players and our club, not only from a football standpoint but also in expanding the JDT brand," he said.

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

The game also pits two Spanish coaches against each other, both building reputations at high-profile clubs.

TEG Sport managing director Rachael Carroll said Malaysia's selection as the tour's final destination reflected growing recognition of the country as an international football host.

"Bringing Chelsea FC and Johor Darul Ta'zim together for the first time is a special moment for football fans," she said.