KUALA LUMPUR: Terengganu kept their semi-final hopes alive in the Asean Club Championship with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Indonesia’s PSM Makassar at the Sultan Zainal Abidin Stadium in Kuala Terengganu on Thursday (Jan 22).
The East Coast side faced a tough challenge, as PSM Makassar had been unbeaten in their first three Group A matches.
However, Badrul Afzan Razali’s men rose to the occasion, showing grit and determination in their quest for a crucial win.
The first half was a cagey affair, with both teams adopting a cautious approach and heading into the break deadlocked at 0-0.
Terengganu came out stronger in the second half, ramping up their offensive efforts. The breakthrough came when a shot from Nurillo Tukhtasinov struck the hand of PSM Makassar player Ananda Raehan in the penalty box, leading the referee to award a penalty.
Safawi Rasid stepped up confidently to convert the spot kick, beating goalkeeper Reza Arya Partama. His goal was enough, as Terengganu held their lead until the final whistle to secure the win.
"I think tonight’s match was far from easy, it was a tough battle. Even so, I have to commend my teammates for their efforts, and now the competition in the group is wide open," said Safawi.
The victory lifted Terengganu from fourth to second place in Group A, with seven points, just one behind group leaders BG Pathum United, who defeated Shan United 4-1 in Yangon, Myanmar.
PSM Makassar, previously leading the group, slipped to third, also with seven points, but Terengganu holds the advantage on goal difference.
The final group matches on Feb 5 will determine which two teams advance to the semi-finals. Terengganu will take on BG Pathum United, while PSM Makassar will face Thanh Hoa, who are currently fourth in the group with six points.
Only the top two teams will progress to the next stage.
"Next, we will face BG Pathum United, and we are determined to give our best to secure a spot in the semi-finals.
"I believe the upcoming match will be intense as both teams are fighting for qualification. It promises to be an exciting showdown," he added.
