KUCHING: The young squad from Basic Soccer Development emerged as champions of the Under-8 category at the PETRONAS Youth Football Closed Tournament (PYFCT) 2025.
Coached by Mohamad Safri Adam, the team capitalised on their penalty opportunities in the final match, securing the title for the side representing Astana Residence here.
Three goals from the penalties proved decisive, leaving Samarahan Academy to settle for second place after a full-time penalty score of 3-2.
“Discipline is key. The players train with full commitment, and that’s really their main strength,” said Safri to reporters on the touchline.
“When their discipline is strong, we can easily instill tactical knowledge – and you can now see the results of that. So, discipline is one of the main things we prioritise in player management.”
Safri said the victory was not only sweet for the players but also a source of pride for their parents and for the Astana Residence’s management, who have provided vital support to help children in the academy grow.
“Thank you to the Housing Office management at Jalan Astana for their great cooperation in allowing us to use the residential field for our training sessions.
“Also, thank you to the parents and guardians who came today to show support; they are the foundation for this success. They’ve been consistently sending their children to our training centre,” he said.
Safri revealed that Basic Soccer Development, established in 2013, holds training sessions for Under-8 players every Saturday from 7:30 am to 10:30 am.
Commenting on the team’s success, he added that recent friendly matches held in preparation for the tournament had helped the players improve their performance on the big day.
Most players in the Basic Soccer Development squad are between the ages of six and eight years old.
