Shopee Cup Group A Intensifies as Buriram United Snatches Late Draw

Defending champions Buriram United scored a dramatic 91st-minute penalty to draw 1-1 with Công An Hà Nội in the Shopee Cup on Wednesday. The result keeps their knockout stage hopes alive in a fiercely contested Group A. The match in Buriram was a replay of last season’s final and lived up to its tense billing.

Down to ten men for most of the second half, the Thai champions showed resilience to salvage a point. According to Reuters, the late VAR-awarded penalty was a decisive moment in a match that could have seen Buriram’s title defense falter.

Group A Standings Remain Tight After Dramatic Night

Buriram’s draw leaves them in fifth place in the six-team group with just two points. However, they are only three points behind group leaders Selangor FC. Every team in Group A has now played three matches in the single round-robin format.

The top two teams will advance to the semifinals. Buriram’s path is difficult but still possible. Their remaining matches are critical must-win fixtures.

In the group’s other match, DH Cebu FC earned their first point with a 1-1 draw against Selangor FC. Selangor took the lead in the second half through Willian Lira. Cebu fought back bravely but could not find a winner.

The Filipino club remains at the bottom of the table. However, their performance showed they can compete with the group’s best teams.

Title Defense Hangs in Balance for Thai Giants

Buriram’s campaign has been far from smooth. They were held by both Selangor and BG Pathum United in their opening games. The red card to key forward Robert Žulj against CAHN was a major setback.

Coach Alexandré Pölking must now rally his squad for a final push. Their pedigree as four-time consecutive Thai champions makes them dangerous. But they have no margin for error left.

The Shopee Cup’s return has sparked intense regional rivalry. The matches have been physical and emotionally charged. This unpredictability makes for compelling viewing for fans across Southeast Asia.

The late drama in Buriram proves the Shopee Cup title is still up for grabs. For the defending champions, the mission is clear: win their remaining games and hope other results fall their way.

Info at your fingertips

What is the Shopee Cup?

The Shopee Cup is the popular name for the ASEAN Club Championship. It is the top continental club competition for Southeast Asian football nations. The tournament returned in 2024 after a 20-year hiatus.

Can Buriram United still qualify for the semifinals?

Yes, mathematically they can. Buriram must win their two remaining matches. They also need favorable results from other games in Group A to secure a top-two finish.

Who leads Shopee Cup Group A?

Selangor FC currently leads Group A with five points from three matches. They are closely followed by BG Tampines Rovers and BG Pathum United. The standings are extremely tight.

How did VAR impact the Buriram vs. CAHN match?

VAR was central to the match’s key moments. It confirmed the red card for Buriram’s Robert Žulj. It also awarded the late penalty for a handball, which allowed Buriram to equalize.

When is Buriram United’s next Shopee Cup match?

Buriram’s next Group A fixture is against BG Tampines Rovers. This is a crucial match scheduled for the next matchday. A loss would effectively end their title defense.