Cebu FC finally got on the scoreboard in the 2025-2026 Asean Club Championship Shopee Cup, securing a hard-fought point against Malaysian side Selangor FC. The Group A clash ended 1-1 on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
Andes Breaks Deadlock, Lira Responds
After a first half where neither team could find the net, the home side struck first. Rico Andes broke the deadlock just two minutes after the restart, in the 47th minute. The goal came from a well-executed set piece, with Andes powerfully heading home a corner kick delivered by Esrom Paulos.
The celebration for the Filipino club was short-lived, however. Selangor FC responded with an equalizer just seven minutes later. Willian Lira found the back of the net from 12 yards out, finally beating Cebu FC goalkeeper Rami Jeridi, who had put on a stellar defensive display for much of the match.
Possession Dominance Fails to Translate for Selangor
Despite controlling the flow of the game for long periods, Selangor FC struggled to turn their advantage into a winning result. The Malaysian visitors enjoyed most of the ball possession but were let down by poor finishing. Statistics revealed they had only a 25 percent shot accuracy, missing the majority of their attempts on goal.
Group A Standings and Next Fixture
The draw had immediate implications for the tightly contested Group A table. In other matches played, Buriram United drew 1-1 with Cong An Hanoi, while Tampines Rovers edged BG Pathum United 3-2.
The results mean Tampines Rovers leads the group with six points, followed closely by Selangor FC with five. BG Pathum United and Cong An Hanoi are tied on four points each, with Buriram United on three. Cebu FC currently sits at the bottom with one point from their opening matches.
The Visayan squad's campaign continues on January 28, 2026, when they travel to face BG Pathum United at the Pathum Thani Stadium in Thailand. The match will be crucial for Cebu FC's hopes of advancing in the regional tournament.
