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Benjamin Mora steps down as coach of Malaysia Super League champions Johor Darul Ta'zim

Malaysian giants Johor Darul Ta'zim have announced that Benjamin Mora -- the most successful coach in the club's history -- has resigned to "return to Mexico due to unavoidable personal matters".

The Mexican tactician has played a pivotal role in JDT's recent success, having a hand in four Malaysia Super League titles along with a Malaysia Cup triumph in 2019.

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Just this year, Mora also guided the Southern Tigers to the knockout stage of the AFC Champions League -- Asia's premier club competition -- for the first time ever after remarkably finishing top of their group ahead of continental heavyweights Kawasaki Frontale and Ulsan Hyundai.

They will take on Japan's Urawa Red Diamonds in the Round of 16 on Aug. 19.

In an official statement, the club announced: "Benjamin had requested JDT to allow him to return to Mexico due to unavoidable personal matters, and JDT respects the request and will always leave the door open for a return in the future."

Mora departs JDT with the club on course for 9th consecutive MSL title as they currently lead the standings by a point but with two games in hand over second-placed Sabah, while also through to the semifinals of the Malaysia Cup.

An announcement on Mora's successor is expected as soon as the end of this week.