PETALING JAYA: Selangor begin their Asean Club Championship journey tonight with the toughest of openers - away to reigning champions Buriram United at the Chang Arena in Thailand.
The Thai treble winners, who lifted the inaugural crown in May after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Vietnam’s Cong An Ha Noi, are widely regarded as the benchmark in South-East Asian football.
Striker Chrigor Moraes, who leads the line for the Red Giants and a former Buriram player himself, certainly knows the score.
But he insists the team must balance respect for Buriram with belief in themselves.
"Because Buriram are such a strong team, it’s very difficult to play them at their home ground," said the Brazilian.
"But I remind my teammates we must be strong and concentrated. We too have good players, and I believe we can take the game to them.
As for Selangor coach Katsuhito Kinoshi, he sees the tough challenge of taking on Buriram as a great opportunity.
"This kind of game definitely makes us stronger,” said the Japanese tactician.
"Buriram have 16 foreigners in their squad. I don’t know who will play against us but we are looking forward to see what they bring. For us, the focus is to keep our style, concentrate on our football and fight 100 percent. That’s our preparation."
Kinoshi, who previously served as an assistant coach for the Serbian national team, knows the scale of the task ahead. Buriram not only boast depth but also pedigree, with several players of international calibre.
"They are one of the strongest teams in South-East Asia, along with Johor Darul Ta’zim. But last season, we earned the right to face these kinds of teams.
"I am very proud of my players and our work. To be here, to be playing Buriram, is an honour. Now we must show our style against them."
Selangor head into their debut on the Asean stage after finishing as runners-up to JDT in both the Super League and FA Cup last season.
The Chang Arena has long been a fortress for Buriram and Selangor will be wary of the champions’ ability to punish mistakes.
For Selangor, the trip to Buriram is more than just a group-stage opener; it is a statement of intent. And whether they leave Thailand with points or not, Kinoshi has made it clear that the Red Giants will not compromise on their identity.
"We must show our football. We must fight and we must be proud to play against one of Asia’s best.”
