Buriram United Secures Crucial Victory in AFC Champions League Elite
Buriram United delivered a strong performance to secure a 2-0 victory over Shanghai Port, marking a significant step forward in their AFC Champions League Elite campaign. The win not only brought them to six points but also kept their hopes of advancing in the knockout stages alive.
The Thai champions took the lead in the 15th minute when Supachai Chaided found the back of the net. This early goal set the tone for the match, and it was further solidified by Curtis Good’s second goal 20 minutes into the second half. The victory allowed the Thunder Castle to climb to the fifth spot in the East Zone league stage after four matches.
Prior to this match, Buriram United had been sitting in 11th place with three points. Their performance against Shanghai Port demonstrated their resilience and determination to improve their standing in the group. The team’s ability to maintain a clean sheet and execute their game plan effectively was praised by head coach Mark Jackson.
“Delighted with the result but also the performance of the team,” said Jackson. “I thought it was excellent from every player involved. We spoke about playing the way we wanted but as well, there was a show of resilience in defence to keep the clean sheet.”
Jackson emphasized the importance of preparation and focus. “We knew where Shanghai would bring a threat because we do a lot of work on the opposition but ultimately, we always try to focus on what we do. So we were prepared for that. When those moments came, we stood strong. We scored twice and had good attacking moments.”
Shanghai Port’s coach, Kevin Muscat, expressed disappointment with the result. He noted that several key players, including Zhang Linpeng, Kuai Jiwen, Liu Ruofan, and Leonardo, were absent from the match. “Taking everything into consideration, the number of players we were unable to bring here, I think that the team that was out there performed to their capabilities,” said Muscat. “Tonight, at different moments, we created some really good chances.”
Australian defender Curtis Good, who was named Man of the Match, highlighted the team’s collective effort. “Everyone in the team performed very well today. The opportunity to progress to the next round is still open.”
Buriram United will face Ulsan HD on November 26 in Ulsan, South Korea, in their next match.
AFC Champions League Two: Thai Teams in Action
In the AFC Champions League Two, two Thai teams will be competing in upcoming matches. Bangkok United will take on Singapore’s Lion City Sailors FC in Group G on Thursday at Bishan Stadium. Meanwhile, BG Pathum United will host the Philippines’ Kaya FC-Iloilo in Group H.