Tricky test for Ceres-Negros as it battles Vietnamese squad Becamex in away game

THU DAU MOT—Philippine club champion Ceres-Negros faces a tricky away test on Tuesday as it faces Vietnamese powerhouse Becamex Binh Duong in the AFC Cup at Gu Dau Stadium.

The Busmen can solidify their hold of top spot in Group G with maximum points against the Vietnamese Cup champions in a showdown set in this fast-rising industrial city north of Saigon.

A brace from winger OJ Porteria propelled the Busmen to a thrilling 3-2 win over Shan United at Panaad Stadium two weeks ago.

But while the Ceres attack looked sharper, the Busmen’s defense remained a concern as they struggled to see out the game against the Burmese side, conceding a late goal.

Ceres skipper Martin Steuble expects an improved performance from the Busmen, the Asean zonal champions two years ago.

“We analyzed that game (against Shan); we saw our mistakes and coach showed us what we can do better,” said Steuble. “Day in and day out, we have been working hard trying to avoid those mistakes.”

The Vietnamese Cup champions carry a huge threat going forward in striker Nguyen Anh Duc, who scored against the Philippines in the first leg of the AFF Suzuki Cup semifinals last year at Panaad Stadium.