For the first time in history, the 2021 AFC Champions League (ACL) will see the expansion of the competition from 32 to 40 teams in the group stage – an increase of eight. That makes one additional group each in the East and West zones making it the biggest ever ACL competition.
The increase of the number of teams also presented debut for many newcomers. Representing the Thai League at the highest level in Asian football will be newcomer BG Pathum United and Port FC.
Despite being grouped together with some of the top East Asian teams, Thai League deputy CEO & Director of club licensing, Benjamin Tan remains optimistic.
“Both teams do stand a realistic chance. In the group of BG Pathum United, which is an interesting strong group, facing defending champions Ulsan Hyundai and possibly facing Chinese super league team Beijing FC from the play-off. Also not to write off V.League champions Viettel, playing their first ACL in the group, who may be the surprise team in the group.
Don’t forget all matches will be played at a centralised playing ground. Unlike the previous editions where the home and away matches will be played, there will not be any home advantages for the “home” team. Hence, there could potentially be some surprises,” Benjamin Tan sharing his thoughts with Junpiter Futbol.
“And there is an advantage for both BG Pathum United and Port FC which is that they can focus on the ACL campaign as they will finish the current Thai League season unlike the other teams in the same group,” added Tan.
So in his opinion, how will both teams fare in the competition?
“With the current squad they have built up at BG Pathum United, they should have a decent debut in ACL this season. As for Port FC’s group, we will see China’s Shandong Luneng which is traditionally not an easy team to beat. Hong Kong champions Kitchee SC will not be a pushover and possibly from the play-off, Port FC will face Japanese club Cerezo Osaka or Melbourne City of Australia. But I’m optimistic to see Port FC advancing past the group stage,” commented Tan.
As for newcomer BG Pathum United, how did the team react to the grouping?
“Actually a lot of people don’t know, we were all watching the ACL 2021 group stage draw together and I must say, we were more excited than worried!” commented Irfan Fandi, BG Pathum United’s defender.
“Yes, my first thought upon seeing the opponents whom we were going to meet was ‘Wow, this is going to be a tough challenge’. Having said that, I know it is going to be a great experience for myself and my team. In football, anything is possible. We just need to be positive and give all our best on the pitch. And I am confident to say we have a good chance to do well,” added Irfan.
While Irfan is getting excited to play against some of the best in Asia soon, which is the opponent in their group which he is excited to play against? The Singapore International did not hesitate, “The defending champion, Ulsan Hyundai!”
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