Bangkok United head coach Totchtawan Sripan admitted that his team’s ability to adapt to the challenging cowgrass surface at MBPJ Stadium was largely down to securing an early two-goal advantage in their 4-2 victory over Selangor FC in the opening match of the AFC Champions League Two 2025/26 Group Stage, Group G.
Ahead of the tie, Totchtawan had voiced concerns about his players adjusting to the unfamiliar grass conditions, which differ from the pitches Bangkok United are used to in the Thai League. Despite those worries, the visitors made a fast start and capitalized on their chances to seize control.
Reflecting on the match, Totchtawan acknowledged that his side initially struggled in the opening stages.
“Honestly, it wasn’t smooth for us throughout the entire match. For the first 20 to 30 minutes, we were still trying to find balance and were forced to defend against Selangor,” he said at the post-match press conference.
However, goals in the 11th and 15th minutes, combined with Selangor being reduced to 10 men, gave Bangkok United the platform to settle into their rhythm.
“Once we had the two-goal cushion and Selangor went down to 10 men, we controlled the tempo. That allowed us to adapt to the conditions and ensure the game stayed in our hands,” Totchtawan added.
With the win, Bangkok United top Group G with three points, while Persib Bandung and Lion City Sailors (LCS) sit level on one point each after drawing 1-1 in the other fixture.
Bangkok United’s next challenge will be a home clash against Persib Bandung on October 1, while Selangor will travel to Singapore to face Lion City Sailors on the same day.
Credit Photo : AFC
