Selangor FC head coach Katsuhito Kinoshi has dismissed suggestions that a hectic fixture schedule should be used as an excuse as his side prepares to face Tampines Rovers in their second group match of the Shopee Cup 2025/26 tomorrow.
The 60-year-old tactician, who has overseen back-to-back defeats in recent outings, believes that facing strong opponents is the best way for the Red Giants to grow in quality and resilience on the pitch.
“Every competition we enter, our target is to go as far as possible. Yes, we have a packed schedule — we just returned from Kuching and trained today ahead of tomorrow’s match,” Kinoshi said at the pre-match press conference.
“This is an opportunity to measure where we stand and improve from before. To get better, we must face strong teams. This is the perfect chance. We must be ready for tomorrow and give our best.”
Selangor currently sit on one point in Group B after drawing 1-1 with Buriram United in their opening match. However, defeats to Kuching City (Super League) and Bangkok United (ACL2) have mounted pressure on Kinoshi’s squad, which now needs a result to keep their ACC campaign alive.
“Of course, there is pressure. But I am here to take responsibility — this is my job,” Kinoshi added.
“This is a different competition, and we need to change our mentality. In the Shopee Cup, we drew against Buriram, so it doesn’t matter what happened against Kuching City or Bangkok United. Our focus must be on this game.
“We must win. In every match, we must aim to win.”
Selangor will host Tampines Rovers tomorrow at the MBPJ Stadium, Petaling Jaya with kickoff scheduled for 8:30 p.m.
Credit Photo : SFC
