It’s not a normal fixture for Melbourne Victory this week. For one, they are taking on their first qualifier for the Asian Champions League against Thai powerhouse Muangthong United. Secondly, they travel up to Victoria’s second biggest town, Geelong to play under Kardinia Park’s bright lights.
Taking on Asia’s best is a daunting task, but probably the best experience for an A-League team, and as a former player himself, coach Kevin Muscat must be roaring to see how his team goes against Muangthong.
As the team was locked in on Tuesday so expect to see the Greek trio, Kosta Barbarouses, Jesse Makarounas and James Troisi, making a difference on the pitch. Big names like Archie Thompson, Pablo Conteras, Tom Rogic and skipper Mark Milligan will be drawing the crowd support, but no word yet if they will be used as substitutes if things go south for the club.
Muangthong have a strong side with several key international players and homegrown talent. Captain Datsakorn Thonglao is a player to watch, with the local hero having made 112 appearances for Muangthong in the Thai Premier League, leading them to three league titles in 2009, 2010 and 2012. Striker Jay Bothroyd is a English Premier League wonderboy, and will be a key part in creating a good defensive block for Victory.
As one of the richest Thai teams, Muangthong have won their League’s title three times since being promoted in 2009, and are a favourite to win in tonight’s game. In their last game, Muangthong defeated Hanoi T&T 2-0.
The winner of the match will automatically find themselves in Group G of the AFC Champions League, which also includes Guangzhou Evergrande (China), Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors (South Korea) and Yokohama F. Marinos (Japan).
Should Melbourne Victory win Saturday’s qualifier, the first match of the group stages will take place on Tuesday 26 February in China against reigning Asian Champions League winners, Guangzhou.