Prepared for a tough test
MALAYSIA need to relive the magic of their previous three outings in the AFF Cup to qualify for the semifinals in Yangon.
The team were in danger of not reaching the semi-finals in 2010, 2012 and 2014 but they did so by winning their final group matches in each edition.
Malaysia face a similar predicament tomorrow as they must beat co-hosts Myanmar to reach the last four.
However, it could be more difficult this time as local fans here could turn hostile following Malaysia’s stand against recent issues in the Rakhine State.
FA of Malaysia (FAM) general secretary Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin is confident his players will not be affected by a possible hostile reception tomorrow.
“The security here is very tight. I have briefed the players not to respond to anything during the game. I just want them to focus on the immediate mission,” said Hamidin yesterday.
“Playing in front of your own fans is never easy. In 2014, we defeated co-hosts Singapore in front of a packed stadium to make the semifinals. I believe we can do it again against Myanmar.
“I think the players did really well against Vietnam. Both teams had four chances each but Vietnam were lucky to score from one.”
National coach Ong Kim Swee said his players are used to playing away from home.
“I think they will be able to handle the situation. The players know a win is a must and I believe they will perform well. We need to play to tactics and be patient in every aspect.
“The goal will eventually come if were are not hasty during the game. A draw will not be enough to qualify for the semi-finals,” he said.
Kim Swee said Myanmar’s neversay-die attitude is their strong point but Malaysia will do their best tomorrow.
He disclosed that centre-back Ronny Harun has suffered a hamstring
in action in their AFF Cup Group problem while winger Syazwan Zainon is down with a minor knock to his knee.
“We will assess their injuries and decide tomorrow in training whether they are available for the game,” Kim Swee added.