Buriram United FC and Công An Hà Nội FC meet again on Wednesday in a high-stakes ASEAN Club Championship Shopee Cup™ Group A clash, a rematch of their dramatic final six months ago. Coach Mano Pölking admits the game is “do-or-die” for both sides as they struggle for form early in the campaign.
Công An Hà Nội lost their opener to BG Pathum United but edged DH Cebu to reach three points, while Buriram sit one point behind after draws with Selangor and BG Pathum. With only two teams guaranteed a semi-final spot, Pölking expects a tense battle, especially with Buriram playing at home.
Despite the painful penalty shoot-out defeat in May, Pölking insists this meeting is not about revenge, saying the unforgettable final will stay with him forever. He respects Buriram’s quality but stresses that Wednesday’s priority is simply securing crucial points.
With the Vietnamese side juggling four competitions this season, Pölking says tough international fixtures are helping the team grow. Selangor currently top Group A on four points, ahead of BG Pathum United on goal difference, while Tampines Rovers sit third with three points.
