Buriram United seized a crucial advantage in the Shopee Cup 2025/26 semi-final after defeating Johor Darul Ta’zim 3-1 in a high-stakes first-leg encounter at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, Iskandar Puteri.
The Thai giants now carry a two-goal cushion into the return leg, putting them firmly on course for a place in the final — and a step closer to defending the title they won in the 2024/25 season.
Despite a bright start from the home side, it was Buriram who struck first through Guilherme Bissoli in the 34th minute, marking his 39th goal across all competitions this season.
JDT had pushed forward aggressively early on, with Brazilian forward Jairo da Silva returning to the starting lineup after injury, supported by Marcos Guilherme and Oscar Arribas.
However, Buriram’s defence — marshalled by captain Kenneth Dougall — remained composed under pressure.
The visitors doubled their lead just before halftime when Goran Causic found the net, leaving JDT trailing 2-0 at the break.
Buriram continued to threaten after the restart and thought they had extended their lead through Supachai Chaided, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.
JDT responded by introducing Stuart Wilkin to inject creativity, and their persistence paid off when Ager Aketxe pulled one back in 90+1 minute.
But any hopes of a late comeback were quickly extinguished. Just two minutes later, Bissoli struck again (90+3) to restore Buriram’s two-goal advantage heading into the second leg.
The return leg will take place in Thailand on May 13, where JDT must overturn a two-goal deficit to keep their hopes of reaching the final alive.
Credit Photo : JST
