Buriram and Kirins on collision course

Defending champions Buriram United will face Thai Premier League title-holders SCG Muang Thong United in the FA Cup semi-finals tonight.

In the other last-four match, Bangkok Glass will take on fellow TPL side Insee Police United.

On paper, Buriram, who are chasing three titles, are slight favourites against bitter rivals Muang Thong in the clash at Thammasat Stadium.

Buriram, who have a five-point lead over Muang Thong in the TPL, will be without Thanasak Srisai and Adisak Kraisorn.

Muang Thong coach Rene Desaeyere admitted that Buriram are a good team but his players have the determination to overcome them.

‘‘They are strong but we have fighting spirit and hunger for success,’’ the Belgian coach said.

‘‘I am confident that we will advance to the final.’’

The Kirins will be without Thailand goalkeeper Kawin Thammasatchanant, who is out injured. They will be led by striker Teerasil Dangda and playmaker Datsakorn Thonglao.

Bangkok Glass coach Atthapol Pusapakom has aimed to take the Rabbits to win the FA Cup since he joined the team a few months ago after being sacked by Buriram.

Bangkok Glass will be without Namibian forward Lazarus Kaimbi and Aust- ralian defender Goran Subara. They will be spearheaded by striker Teerathep Winothai.

Insee Police have only one suspended player in Kritprom Boonsan and coach Thawatchai Damrong-ongtrakul is confident that his men will reach the final.

‘‘We want to win the FA Cup for the first time in our club history,’’ he said.

Both matches will be shown live at 7pm on TrueVisions 96 and 97 respectively.