Ben Mazzeo header saves Melbourne City in AFC Champions League draw Melbourne City avoided a potential Champions League elimination after substitute Ben Mazzeo scored a dramatic stoppage-time header to secure a 1-1 draw with Buriram United in the AFC Champions League Elite round-of-16 first-leg clash at AAMI Park. The result kept the Australian side in the competition after a tense encounter that saw Buriram lead for much of the match before Mazzeo’s late intervention. The visitors, coached by Mark Jackson, took an early lead in the first half through Brazilian striker Guilherme Bissoli. The 28-year-old capitalized on a well-executed move, receiving a pass from Germany-born Ghana international Kingsley Schindler before unleashing a powerful angled shot that found the top corner of the net. The goal left Melbourne City goalkeeper Patrick Beach scrambling, as he was caught off guard at his near post. Despite the deficit, City’s captain Aziz Behich had a chance to equalize in the 52nd minute. However, his shot was directed straight at Buriram’s goalkeeper Neil Etheridge, who made a routine save. The Socceroos’ playmaker Daniel Arzani also missed a golden opportunity in the 69th minute, failing to connect with a cross from Marcus Younis. Arzani’s inability to convert the chance frustrated coach Aurelio Vidmar, who had earlier received a yellow card for dissent. The turning point came in the final moments of the match. Substitute Ben Mazzeo, who had been a key contributor throughout the game, rose highest to meet a cross from Marcus Younis. His header found the back of the net, securing a crucial draw for Melbourne City. The goal lifted the team’s spirits after two consecutive heavy A-League losses to Melbourne Victory and Auckland FC.#mark_jackson #buriram_united #melbourne_city #ben_mazzeo #aami_park
