Selangor FC captain Safuwan Baharudin believes composure, experience and mentality will be crucial as the Malaysian side prepare for a difficult away battle against Nam Dinh FC in the Shopee Cup 2025/26 semi-final second leg.
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated clash at Thien Truong Stadium, the veteran defender admitted Selangor are expecting a demanding contest in front of a hostile Vietnamese crowd.
“We all expect a very tough game tomorrow, especially playing away from home,” said Safuwan.
“But I think we are experienced enough to handle certain situations. It’s about how we start the game and how we finish the game.”
Safuwan described the upcoming encounter as a “long night” due to the quality both sides possess and the high stakes surrounding the semi-final.
“Both teams have enough quality to showcase strong performances,” he explained.
“Our focus is to do what is right and what is necessary for us to take that final step into the final.”
The Singapore international also praised Nam Dinh’s attacking players, particularly striker Nguyen Xuan Son, whom he described as one of the best forwards he has faced.
“We know how dangerous they are,” Safuwan said.
“I’ve had several duels with (Nguyen Xuan) Son before, and I think he is one of the best attackers I’ve played against.”
However, Safuwan insisted Selangor have the quality and discipline needed to compete at the highest level in Southeast Asian football.
“This is the biggest platform in Southeast Asia for us to showcase our talent,” he added.
“We have the quality to do it, but football is unpredictable. Any team can take their opportunity.”
Safuwan also reflected on Selangor’s determination to finally reach a major final after previous disappointments in recent seasons.
“This is the third time we are knocking on the final door,” he said.
“We may not have achieved anything yet this season, but failure does not mean we are going backwards. We have shown our quality.”
The experienced defender praised the coaching staff for keeping the squad mentally prepared despite a demanding schedule and believes the team are fully united ahead of the decisive showdown.
“We had a few good days regrouping as a team,” Safuwan concluded.
“The coaching staff have done very well to prepare us and now we are ready to fight for this opportunity.”
Credit Photo : SFC
