On Thursday, September 18, Pohang Steelers from Korea will visit Thailand’s Pathum United for their opening match in the AFC Champions League 2. Here’s a closer look at both teams and our match prediction.
Also read: Sporting CP vs Kairat Almaty prediction and betting tips 18 September 2025
Match preview
Pathum United started their 2025/26 season with a challenging away draw against Prachuap. Supachai Komsil’s team had 66% possession and outshot their opponents. However, defensive errors and missed scoring chances led to a disappointing result in their opening match.
They later won against Lamphun Warrior (2-1), faced a close loss to Bangkok United (1-2), and achieved a narrow victory over Uthai Thani (1-0). The team showed adaptability, smoothly transitioning between defense and attack while controlling the game. They currently sit fourth after four matches, with seven points out of a possible twelve.
Pohang Steelers play in a league that’s nearing its end, having completed 29 of 33 matches. They’re expected to stay in the championship group, occupying fourth place with 45 points, five points ahead of seventh place.
In their last six matches, Pohang secured four wins, suffered one loss, and drew once, totaling 13 points from 18 available. They conceded only three goals during this period, showcasing a solid defense while scoring seven times.
Probable lineups
Pathum United: Anuin, Oseh, Yamnongwat, Doi, Panya, Thiatrakul, Kaman, Notsuda, N’Diaye, Pissano, Drincic
Pohang Steelers: Hwang, Shin, Jeon, Park, Kang, Ki, Oberdan, Eo, Hong, Lee, Teixeira
Match facts and head-to-head
- This is the first meeting between the two clubs
- Both teams have scored in six of Pathum’s last seven matches
- Pohang has conceded only three goals in their last three games
Prediction
This is the first match between these teams at the continental level, with both representing their countries in an important game. Expect an exciting match with chances for both teams to score. My prediction: over 2.5 goals at 1.7 odds.