KUCHING: Kuching City FC finally have their first continental victory, and they did it in style at home ground last night (Nov 5).

Safawi Rasid struck twice inside seven minutes as the Cats stunned South Korea’s Gangwon FC 2-0 at Stadium Taha Ariffin, securing a historic first win in Asian competition and breathing new life into their AFC Champions League Two (ACL2) campaign.

The victory was particularly sweet for Kuching City after they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Gangwon in their previous meeting in South Korea.

This time, however, the Cats needed only 13 minutes to find the breakthrough, with Safawi opening the scoring.

The forward struck again in the 20th minute, with Ramadhan Saifullah providing the assist, to complete a blistering opening spell and hand Kuching City a 2-0 advantage before Gangwon had time to settle.

Two goals in seven minutes put the Cats firmly in control, but the challenge then shifted to protecting their lead against a side they had struggled to overcome just a week earlier.

Kuching City held firm after the break, maintaining their advantage as Gangwon searched for a route back into the contest.

The hosts ultimately saw out the match without conceding, turning Safawi’s early double into three valuable points.

After much criticism on his recent outings, the 29-year-old striker’s performance was a timely reminder of the quality and experience he brings to the Cats.

Having previously spoken about the importance of making the most of opportunities, the 29-year-old did exactly that on the biggest night of Kuching City’s ACL2 campaign so far.

The result also gives head coach Aidil Sharin Sahak’s side a major lift in Group H, with the Cats now off the mark and two group matches still to play.

Kuching City will next host Phnom Penh Crown on Nov 26 before travelling to Hong Kong to face Kitchee in their final group match on Dec 3.

After three matches without a win at the start of their ACL2 campaign, the Cats have finally broken through with a result that keeps them in the fight for the knockout stage.