Selangor have kept their hopes alive to advance into the last 16 of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup after a narrow victory over Ltd Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club of Bangladesh in their third group E match at Bangabandhu National Stadium in Bangladesh tonight.
The first win after three matches however did not change the position of the Red Giants at the third spot in the group with four points.
In the game telecasted live over TV9, Selangor were jolted with the opening goal by Sheikh Jamal’s Gambian import player, Landing Darboe, in the 28th minute.
Stung by a goal down, Selangor were quick to find the equaliser 10 minutes later via Patrick Ronaldinho Wleh.
The score remained at 1-1 until the end of the first half.
In the second half, Selangor went one up through R. Gopinathan’s header from a cross by Patrick in the 53rd minute.
Sheikh Jamal replied with two quick goals in the 64th and 65th minute by Emeka Onuoha and captain Wedson Alselme respectively to take the lead again.
Mauro Olivi came to the rescue and equalised for Selangor in the 69th minute and scored the winning goal for the Red Giants in the 82nd minute.
Meanwhile, group E leader, Tampines Rovers of Singapore continued to top the group when they drew 1-1 with Ceres La Salle FC of Philippines at Jalan Besar Stadium, Singapore.
Muhammad Hafiz Abu Sujad put The Stags ahead in the 69th minute before Adrian Gallardo equalised for the visitors in the 88th minute.
Selangor will be hosting the Bangladeshi club at Shah Alam Stadium while Ceres La Salle FC will meet visitors Tampines Rovers at home in the fourth match of group E on April 12. – BERNAMA
