Mark Jackson believes Buriram United are fully prepared for a difficult battle against Selangor FC as the defending champions aim to secure a positive result in the first leg of the Shopee Cup 2025/26 final.
Buriram will travel to the MBPJ Stadium on Wednesday night carrying the expectations of defending their regional crown against a Selangor side eager to end their long wait for international silverware.
Speaking during the official pre-match press conference, Jackson admitted his side face another massive test but stressed that Buriram’s experience in high-pressure matches could prove decisive.
“Our preparations have gone very well even though we have been playing many matches continuously,” said Jackson.
“This is something we have dealt with throughout the season. Recovery and preparation are extremely important and we come here full of confidence after getting the result we wanted in the Chang FA Cup.”
Jackson highlighted Buriram’s ability to handle difficult situations after navigating several major knockout matches over the past two seasons.
“We know tomorrow will be another difficult game. Finals are always intense because both teams desperately want to win,” he explained.
“But this team has experienced these situations many times before, so we know how to handle them. We came here to play our football, follow our plan and return home with the result we want.”
The Buriram head coach also refused to underestimate Selangor, describing the Malaysian giants as a dangerous and well-organised side.
“Selangor and Johor Darul Ta’zim are completely different teams,” Jackson said.
“We analyse our opponents carefully and look for areas we can exploit, but our main focus is always on what we need to do as a team. Sometimes your analysis is correct, sometimes opponents surprise you, so adaptability during matches is extremely important.”
Buriram will be without influential duo Guilherme Bissoli and Goran Causic for the first leg, but Jackson remains confident in the squad depth available.
“Of course, losing key players affects the team because Bissoli and Causic are very important for us,” he admitted.
“But I always remind the players that we do not depend on individuals alone. Every player in this squad is ready to step in and perform for the club.”
Jackson also praised the mentality within the Buriram squad, insisting their hunger for success remains as strong as ever despite already winning multiple trophies.
“People say Selangor are hungry to become champions, but we are hungry too,” he said.
“We will never approach a final casually. We will do everything possible to defend this title.”
The first leg of the Shopee Cup final between Selangor FC and Buriram United will take place on Wednesday, 20 May, at the MBPJ Stadium.
Credit Photo : BRUTD
