Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Bangkok: AFC Champions League debutants Buriram PEA capped a memorable season after an extra-time strike from Ghanaian forward Frank Acheampong saw the Thai Premier League champions defeat Muang Thong United 1-0 on Wednesday to win the Thai FA Cup and complete the domestic double.
Acheampong scored in the 108th minute after regulation of the match in front of a packed crowd at the Suphachalasai Stadium ended goalless.
With Buriram enjoying victory in both the league and cup competitions, the door has been opened for Thai Premier League runners-up Chonburi to return to Asia's premier club competition for the only the second time following their impressive debut in the 2008 ACL.
However, Chonburi will need to negotiate a tough play-off against 2009 ACL winners Pohang Steelers, with the triumphant team of the February 10 meeting in Korea advancing to Group E of the 2012 ACL where Gamba Osaka and Adelaide United - the winners and runners up in the 2008 tournament - and Uzbekistan's Bunyodkor await.
Buriram PEA are in Group H and face a tough introduction to continental club football having been pooled with J.League champions Kashiwa Reysol, K-League winners and 2011 ACL runners-up Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors and Chinese Super League title winners Guangzhou Evergrande.
Photo: Thai League News