KUALA LUMPUR: After their early exit from the Malaysia Cup, Selangor now face a daunting mission in the Asian Champions League 2 (ACL2).
The Red Giants must secure a win against Filipino side Cebu FC in their final Group H match at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila tomorrow to keep their hopes alive.
However, victory alone won't be enough.
Katsuhito Kinoshi's men also need Muangthong United to falter against Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok to advance to the round of 16.
The pressure is mounting on Kinoshi as Selangor have still not won since he joined the club.
The Japanese coach struggled in his first two tests, with Selangor losing 2-1 to Muangthong United and Sri Pahang.
The defeats not only dashed their hopes of early ACL2 qualification but also saw them crash out of the Malaysia Cup.
Kinoshi, however, remains optimistic and believes his team will learn from their setbacks as they prepare for the crucial clash against Cebu.
"We will assess the two matches to identify improvements and show a difference in our next game against Cebu in Manila," Kinoshi said.
"We are learning, growing and using these experiences to build consistency and improve."
Selangor are third in Group H with seven points, trailing the Thai side Muangthong by a point.
Group leaders Jeonbuk, who have already booked their place in the round of 16, have amassed 12 points, while Cebu sit bottom with just one point.