Selangor FC head coach Kim Pan-gon believes his side have what it takes to overturn a first-leg deficit against Buriram United and lift the 2025/26 Shopee Cup despite missing two key Jordanian stars.
The Red Giants head into Wednesday’s decisive second leg at Buriram Stadium trailing 1-0 after Suphanat Mueanta’s first-half strike handed the Thai giants the advantage in Petaling Jaya last week.
Despite the setback, Kim remained optimistic that Selangor can rise to the occasion on enemy territory and end the season with silverware.
“It was a tough game in the first leg,” said Kim, who took over as Selangor head coach in January.
“Our performance also wasn’t giving what we have 100 percent and after this game we acknowledged our performance.
“We talked a lot to correct some things and to make a new plan for this game, so everything is good at this moment. I believe our players are full of confidence that we can turn back the result to gain the championship tomorrow.”
Selangor will, however, have to cope without influential Jordanian duo Noor Al-Rawabdeh and Mohammad Abualnadi, both of whom have joined Jordan’s national team camp ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
The pair have been among Selangor’s standout performers throughout the Shopee Cup campaign, playing pivotal roles in midfield and defence respectively.
Still, Kim insisted the Malaysian side are not dependent on individuals.
“I think the two of them are very important players for us, but still I believe all our other players are ready and they have quality,” he explained.
“Selangor are not relying on one or two players. We play as a team so, for me, I don’t think it can have a big effect on tomorrow’s game.”
Knowing Buriram’s strength at home, Kim stressed the importance of finding an early goal to change the momentum of the tie and silence the home crowd.
The experienced South Korean tactician expects an intense battle but believes Selangor’s attacking intent could be the key factor.
“It’s very important, I think, how quickly we can equalise,” he said.
“Then let the opponent team attack us. If they score the first goal they will park the bus and it will be very tough for us.
“In tomorrow’s game, how early we score will be very important. Tomorrow should be very exciting.”
Credit Photo : SFC
