Thai giants Buriram United started their 2023 AFC Champions League campaign in the best way possible after mauling Chinese side Zhejiang FC 4-1 in their opening group stage match on Wednesday at the Chang Arena.
Making their return to the ACL for the first time in 5 years, Buriram claimed their first win in the tournament since a 1-0 home win over Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors back in 2019, as well as their first win over a Chinese side since a 5-0 home win over the now-defunct Guangzhou R&F back in 2015.
A precise Theerathon Bunmathan delivery from the left flank breached the Zhejiang defense in the 17th minute, finding Lonsana Doumbouya’s diving header into the bottom corner, marking the opening goal for Buriram.
Just five minutes later, the Thai side increased their lead from the penalty spot, courtesy of a foul on Doumbouya inside the box. Serbian midfielder Goran Causic confidently stepped up and converted, making it 2-0.
Buriram’s continued dominance in the first half translated into the third goal, shortly before the half-time whistle, as Ratthanakorn Maikami sent an in-swinging corner towards the center of the box. Causic positioned himself perfectly to seal his brace with a well-taken header.
Zhejiang quickly responded within added time of the first half, when Pansa Hemviboon fouled Leonardo inside the box. The Brazilian took it upon himself to take the ensuing penalty, dispatching the spot kick without error.
Pansa then made up for his earlier mistake before the hour-mark, adding Buriram’s fourth goal with a well-executed strike that pretty much sealed the game.
Late attempts from Wang Yudong and Leonardo to narrow the deficit were met with agile saves from goalkeeper Siwarak Tedsungnoen, securing the three points for the Thai club.