Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
Bangkok United is in the runner up position in Group G AFC Champions League (ACL) 2 aka below Persib Bandung. However, they have already ensured that they qualify for the last 16 of ACL 2.
Bangkok United collected 10 points, the same as Persib. However, they had to settle for being in second place because they lost head to head to Persib. In the first meeting, Bangkok United lost 0-2 to Persib at home.
Even though they are below Persib, Bangkok United has already ensured that they qualify for the round of 16. Meanwhile, Persib, which is in first position, doesn’t even have a ticket to the last 16.
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This happened because of the head to head influence of the two teams with Lion City Sailors who are currently in third position. Lion City does have the opportunity to match Persib or Bangkok United’s points in the last match.
In the final match, Persib will fight against Bangkok United. Meanwhile, Lion City met Selangor, who were confirmed to be eliminated.
In the current conditions, Bangkok United is certain to qualify because they are superior head to head over Lion City. Bangkok United won 1-0 at home then took a 2-1 lead when they played at Lion City headquarters.
If there are equal points between the two teams, the better ranking determination is based on head to head. This is what Persib does not have.
Maung Bandung actually lost head to head against Lion City. Persib drew in the first match then lost 2-3 at home to Lion City. This condition means that Persib will be eliminated if Lion City is able to match Persib’s points at the end of the group phase.
To prevent this from happening, Persib must score points in the match against Bangkok United, 10 December. A draw was enough to send Persib through to the last 16 of ACL 2.
(ptr/sry)
