Selangor Take Slim Advantage Into Vietnam After Beating Nam Dinh
PETALING JAYA — Selangor FC moved one step closer to the ASEAN Club Championship (ACC) final after defeating Nam Dinh FC 2-1 in the first leg of the semi-final at Stadium Majlis Bandaraya Petaling Jaya last night.
Brazilian striker Chrigor Moraes proved decisive for the Red Giants after producing a brace to hand the Malaysian side a narrow lead ahead of the second leg in Vietnam.
Nam Dinh looked dangerous from the opening whistle and almost stunned the home supporters through several early attacks.
Jose Walber came close to giving the Vietnamese side the lead with a powerful strike, but Selangor goalkeeper Sikh Izhan Nazrel reacted quickly to deny the attempt.
The visitors continued to create opportunities through Chadrac Akolo, yet Sikh Izhan remained composed under pressure to keep the score level.
Moraes Gives Selangor First-Half Lead
Despite Nam Dinh’s aggressive approach, Selangor managed to break the deadlock in the 38th minute.
Quentin Cheng delivered a dangerous cross into the penalty area before Moraes calmly slotted home to put the hosts in front.
However, Nam Dinh responded before halftime when Nguyen Van Vi scored the equaliser to ensure both sides entered the break tied at 1-1.
Red Giants Regain Momentum
Selangor returned for the second half with greater intensity and improved control in midfield as they searched for another goal.
Their efforts were rewarded in the 59th minute when Moraes struck again, finishing confidently to restore Selangor’s advantage.
The remainder of the match saw both teams continue attacking in search of further goals, but neither side managed to alter the scoreline before the final whistle.
The victory gives Selangor FC a slender advantage ahead of the return leg at Thien Truong Stadium on May 13, where the Red Giants will aim to secure a place in the ACC final.
-wilayah.com.my
