PETALING JAYA: Selangor are determined not to let victory slip away again in the Asean Club Championships Shopee Cup after a frustrating 1-1 draw with Thai giants Buriram United.
The Red Giants had started on the right note at the Chang Stadium in Buriram on Wednesday, with Brazilian striker Chrigor Moraes giving them the lead in the 36th minute.
But defending champions Buriram fought back, and Austrian defender Peter Zulji snatched a late equaliser deep into stoppage time.
Despite taking just one point from their opening match, Selangor head coach Katsuhito Kinoshi praised his team for having kept Buriram on the chase throughout the match.
“I was really satisfied with how we played in the first half but we have to train hard for our next matches.” said Kinoshi.
“We had good training sessions before playing Buriram, but they were very organised and had many good players.
“We did hold the lead until the 95th minute, so that was something that we should be proud of.”
Kinoshi acknowledged the would have to raise the bar when they face Buriram again at home.
“We must be stronger, more team-oriented and disciplined in our coming matches, regardless of whether it’s the domestic league or international competition,” he said.
He also confirmed that Thai midfielder Picha Autra, left out for tactical reasons, remains an integral part of the squad.
“He is our player and I need him in the team. This is for sure,” said Kinoshi.
Selangor’s next match will see them visit Negri Sembilan in the Super League on Sunday, before they host Terengganu at home on Wednesday.
