Negros FC plays Shan U in Yangon

MANILA, Philippines — Pacesetting Ceres Negros FC braces for a tough road game today as it plays Shan United in the AFC Cup Group F hostilities at Thuwunna Stadium in hot Yangon.

The Busmen prevailed over Shan the first time around in Bacolod, 2-0, thanks to two late goals, but expect the 4 p.m. return match (5:30 p.m. Manila time) to be doubly difficult due to their opponents’ determination to get back at them and the oppressive heat in the Burmese capital that’s projected at 38 degrees Celsius.

“Surely it will be a very hard game for us. It will be the hardest game we’ll have in the AFC Cup,” said Ceres coach Risto Vidakovic, whose charges carry a leading seven points ahead of four-pointer Home United and three-pointers Shan and Boeung Ket in the race for group honors.

It will actually be their third meeting overall and the second time for Ceres to play at Shan’s home stadium after their earlier faceoff in the AFC Champions League Qualifiers. First time in Yangon, Busmen won on penalties, 4-3, after a 0-0 stalemate after 90 minutes.