Selangor FC head coach Kim Pan-Gon expressed pride and satisfaction with his players’ performance after guiding the Red Giants to a 1-0 Liga Super Malaysia 2025/26 victory over Negeri Sembilan FC, hailing the result as a deserved reward for a dominant display.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, the South Korean tactician believed Selangor should have put the game to bed much earlier after controlling proceedings, especially in the first half.
“I think we had a very good start and created many goal-scoring chances, especially in the first half. We totally controlled the game. If we scored early, it would have been a very different match,” said Pan-Gon.
“For me, we deserved to win tonight.”
Pan-Gon praised the collective effort and tactical discipline shown by his squad, highlighting that the team executed the game plan well and remained solid throughout the match.
“The players were very solid as a team. Our game plan was very good, we controlled the game and created a lot of chances. That’s important for us.”
He also singled out the atmosphere at Stadium Majlis Bandaraya Petaling Jaya as a crucial factor, crediting Selangor supporters for driving the team forward.
“It was a great atmosphere as usual. The Red Giants supporters coming to support us was crucial. It gave us power to fight.”
While pleased with the result, Pan-Gon stressed that the win was part of a bigger process as Selangor continue to build a strong football identity under his leadership.
“We have a clear target. Everybody knows where we want to go. We are developing our DNA — strong DNA — with good character, good spirit, dynamic and powerful football.
“When fans come here, we want to deliver beautiful football, energetic football and strong mentality.”
However, the former Harimau Malaya head coach admitted there is still room for improvement, particularly in converting chances.
“In the first half, we should have scored more. When you don’t score, you force yourself into trouble. If we want to be strong, we must score early. We created many chances, but it was not enough. We have to improve.”
Pan-Gon made it clear that qualifying for Asian competition remains Selangor’s key objective this season.
“This season, getting an Asia ticket is very important. I’m very proud of the players for their sacrifice and hard work tonight.”
He also touched on squad development, noting that while most players are familiar to him, he is still learning more about the group and believes the current squad has quality.
“It’s a good squad. We are working, communicating, and improving the training atmosphere. The most important thing is unity — supporting each other, respecting each other and being hungry to win.”
When asked about other teams, Pan-Gon reiterated that Selangor’s focus remains inward.
“We must respect other teams, but the most important thing is to focus on ourselves and develop our own way. If we do that, everybody will be happy — players, coaches and fans.”
Selangor’s narrow win keeps them firmly in the top-two conversation as momentum builds under Pan-Gon’s guidance — with belief growing that the Red Giants are moving one step closer to reclaiming their place among Asia’s elite.
Credit Photo : SFC
