Malaysia’s U23 football team loses two players before a decisive SEA Games match against Vietnam, but gains two returning squad members.
MALAYSIA’S national under-23 football squad faces significant changes ahead of its decisive final group match against Vietnam at the SEA Games.
Head coach Mohd Nafuzi Zain confirmed striker Muhammad Haqimi Azim Rosli is on bereavement leave following his stepfather’s passing.
Midfielder Ahmad Haziq Kutty Abba, a standout in the 4-1 win over Laos, is also out with a groin injury.
“We have good and bad news for the team,” Mohd Nafuzi said at the team’s hotel.
“We really need Haqimi’s services to face Vietnam.”
The squad will be bolstered by the arrival of striker Muhammad Alif Izwan Yuslan, who received club permission to join.
Defender Muhammad Aiman Yusuf Muhammad Nabil has also recovered from injury and is available.
“Our team’s line-up of players is still not enough but we accept this challenge,” the coach added.
Mohd Nafuzi stated the team is prepared to face Vietnam, one of the tournament favourites.
“We will play to win, to get three points and most importantly we will not lose,” he said.
A draw against Vietnam on Thursday at Rajamangala National Stadium would secure Malaysia’s place as Group B champions.
Malaysia and Vietnam are currently level on three points, separated only by goal difference.
The Harimau Muda squad aims to reach the podium after early elimination in the 2023 games and a bronze medal match loss in 2021.
Malaysia last won a SEA Games football medal, a silver, when it hosted the event in 2017.
