Selangor FC reignited their Shopee Cup 2025/26 campaign in style, defeating Singapore’s Tampines Rovers 4-2 in their Group Stage clash at the MBPJ Stadium, Petaling Jaya.
Head coach Katsuhito Kinoshi fielded Kalamullah Al Hafiz in goal, while Brazilian forward Chrigor Moraes spearheaded the attack. National winger Faisal Halim, wearing the captain’s armband, provided leadership and flair for the Red Giants.
Tampines, led by head coach Noh Rahman, started with Syazwan Buhari between the posts and Japanese striker Hide Higashikawa up front.
The Red Giants wasted no time taking control, pressing high and forcing errors. Their breakthrough came in the 18th minute when Tampines defender Shuya Yamashita fumbled under pressure, allowing Selangor to pounce for the opener.
Ten minutes later, English midfielder Zack Clough doubled the advantage with a composed finish inside the box, leaving Tampines struggling to cope.
The visitors found a lifeline just before halftime when they were awarded a penalty. Kohya Kazama stepped up confidently to convert in the 41st minute, cutting Selangor’s lead to 2-1 heading into the break.
Despite the setback, Selangor emerged stronger after the restart. Captain Faisal Halim struck his second goal of the night in the 51st minute, restoring a two-goal cushion. Moments later, winger Alvin Fortes capitalized on another defensive lapse to make it 4-1 in the 58th minute, effectively sealing the contest.
Tampines showed resilience, with Hide Higashikawa netting in the 65th minute to reduce the deficit. The visitors then mounted a late surge, pressing hard in the final ten minutes in search of more goals, but Selangor’s defense held firm.
The match ended 4-2, giving Selangor their first win of the Shopee Cup group stage and a crucial three points after a tough run of results in both domestic and continental competitions.
With this victory, the Red Giants climb back into contention in Group A, while Tampines will need to regroup quickly to stay alive in the tournament.
Credit Photo : Simon Yap/SNE-Photo
