PETALING JAYA: Almost two years after an acid attack threatened to end his career, Selangor’s Faisal Halim is enjoying the finest season of his professional life.
With months of rehabilitation, recovery and counselling following the tragedy at a shopping mall in May 2024, the Red Giants’ captain has responded with his most productive campaign to date on Wednesday.
Faisal delivered a captain’s performance by scoring twice to guide Selangor to a 2-0 victory over Vietnamese side Cong An Hanoi in their Asean Club Championship Shopee Cup Group A clash at the Petaling Jaya Stadium.
The win also marked South Korean coach Kim Pan-gon’s fifth straight victory in all competitions since taking charge.
Despite enjoying less possession, Selangor were sharper in attack and more composed when it mattered. The second half belonged to Faisal, fondly known as “Mickey”.
The 28-year-old broke the deadlock in the 59th minute after reacting quickest to a rebound from goalkeeper Filip Nguyen, who had earlier denied winger Alvin Fortes.
He completed his brace in the 68th minute with a powerful strike from outside the box after being teed up by French midfielder Hugo Boumous.
“The boys did great tonight. Everyone worked hard,” said Faisal.
“We knew the win was important. The scoreline didn’t matter; the three points did. We’ll enjoy this result and then focus on the next match.”
The skipper stressed that collective effort remains Selangor’s biggest strength.
“I just try to work hard and do everything for the team. Goals are nice, but winning is more important. When we fight together, we get more energy. Even when we’re tired or don’t have the ball, we keep running and trusting each other.”
This season, Faisal has registered 17 goals and nine assists in 31 matches across all competitions, his best return since turning professional in 2015.
“I give my best in every game. Whether I score or not, what matters is helping the team get the three points.”
Selangor now lead Group A with eight points from four matches, one point ahead of Thai club BG Pathum United.
The Red Giants will conclude their group-stage campaign against BG Pathum at the Petaling Jaya Stadium on Wednesday, with victory guaranteeing a place in the semi-finals.
Coach Kim Pan-gon praised his players’ mentality and singled out Faisal’s influence.
“We created many chances but weren’t clinical in the first half,” said Pan-gon.
“In the second half, we were more determined. Faisal showed his quality – his finishing changed the game.”
Pan-gon also urged his side to remain grounded.
“The tournament is not over. We must stay calm and prepare well for BG Pathum. These wins must become our culture and our DNA.”
