Jackson Acknowledges Buriram's Heavy Losses as Two Key Players Face Championship Final Ban

Buriram United coach Mark Jackson admitted the club has suffered heavy damage without striker Guilherme Bissoli and midfielder Goran Causic for the AFC Champions League Cup final. In the Shopee Cup 2025/26 semi-final second leg, Buriram United played at home for 120 minutes but lost 1-2 to Malaysian side Johor Darul Ta'zim. However, Buriram progressed to the final with a 4-3 aggregate victory on May 13. During that match, both Bissoli and Causic received red cards, leaving them unavailable for the final against Malaysian club Selangor FC.

After the match, Jackson stated: "I'm proud of how the team played with full commitment. Overall, we performed well in the first half but made mistakes that led to goals conceded. Losing a goal late in the first half damaged us significantly."

"I told the players at halftime that no match is decided in the first 45 minutes. I've been with this squad for some time now, and we've shown multiple times that when facing difficult situations, we can overcome them. We fall, but we get back up. The players performed exceptionally well."

"We're disappointed to lose two quality players, and their absence will significantly hurt us. However, we'll find solutions because we have good depth, and this gives other players opportunities. But I'm concerned about losing Bissoli and Causic to suspension. It's my responsibility and the team's to prepare everyone properly."

"Playing abroad presents many challenges already. I appreciate the information about this stadium with its larger-than-normal grass pitch. My staff and I have worked hard, monitoring weather conditions and analyzing other factors."

"Johor Darul Ta'zim is an excellent team that made today's match outstanding. We prepared well and anticipated how our opponents would play. Although we wanted more possession in the first half, aside from the goals conceded, our defensive performance was excellent. As the match progressed, we grew stronger. I'm satisfied with the players' physical and mental condition—I believe every player can fall, but none will surrender."

"It was a physically intense match. Our players received 6 yellow cards and 2 red cards. While cards were given, I believe all our players showed discipline, though I'll review the incidents involving our yellow and red cards."

Goalscorer Kingsley Schindler said: "Losing two important players affects the team, but we'll find ways to play and advance to the final. I'm very happy with my goal—it shows the team's unity that got us here."

"I have confidence in all my teammates. We've faced situations like this before. Everyone showed fighting spirit on the pitch, and the coach provided excellent guidance. The players worked together well. I think our fans should be very proud that the team made it to the final."