KUALA LUMPUR — Selangor FC winger Faisal Halim was thrilled after making his debut and helping the Red Giants secure their first victory in the 2024/25 Asian Football Confederation Champions League 2 (ACL2) campaign yesterday.
In their second Group H match at the Petaling Jaya City Council Stadium (MBPJ), Selangor defeated Dynamic Herb Cebu FC from the Philippines 1-0, with Faisal, also known as Mickey among fans, coming on as a substitute in the 62nd minute.
Faisal revealed that this match gave him his longest playing time since returning to action in August, following a May acid attack that nearly ended his career.
“Alhamdulillah, we secured three points at home in the ACL2. It wasn’t an easy game, but I’m happy to have played the longest minutes since my return. This was my first game with extended time on the pitch,” Faisal said after the match.
“It’s been almost five months (since the attack). I’m taking things step by step to regain my best form. For now, I’m not satisfied yet – I’m still working on getting back to my full potential,” he said after the match, yesterday.
The 26-year-old, who was the top scorer at the 2023 Asian Cup, expressed his satisfaction at finally getting the chance to play in the Asian championship, an opportunity he missed last season with his former club, Terengganu FC, after moving to Selangor.
“Alhamdulillah, we’ve worked hard to reach this stage in Asia. Today, that dream came true with Selangor, and I’m proud to experience this competition.
“But there are still many matches ahead, and we need to improve in areas where we’re lacking. I have to work harder,” said Faisal, who was not included in the squad for the first match.
Faisal also believes that playing in the ACL2 will accelerate his return to top form.
“The intensity is high, and the competition is tough. These are not easy matches, but they’re exactly what I need.
“Playing at this level helps me regain my rhythm, and with more minutes, I’ll continue to improve step by step,” he said.
After two games, Selangor FC is currently in second place with four points, two points behind group leaders Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors from South Korea. Thailand’s Muangthong United is third with one point, while Dynamic Herb Cebu remains at the bottom with no points.
Next, Nidzam Jamil’s squad will face Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors in their third group match at the MBPJ Stadium on October 23. — October 4, 2024