Harimau Malaya Can Expect Stern Tests In Sept Friendlies Against Singapore, Palestine

PETALING JAYA, July 23 (Bernama) -- Harimau Malaya will take on Singapore and Palestine in two Tier 1 international football friendlies in September.

National team head coach Peter Cklamovski said the ‘Causeway Derby’ against world number 159 Singapore will be on Sept 4, while the match against world number 98 Palestine will be on Sept 8.

Even though the venue is not confirmed yet, Cklamovski hopes both matches, which will be part of Malaysia’s preparations for their third Group F match of the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers against Laos in October, will be played at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.

The Australian tactician said both teams were carefully chosen for their unique attributes and the kind of test they provide for the squad’s continued development following the emphatic 4-0 victory over Vietnam in their second Group F match of the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers on the home ground last month.

“Singapore’s a good team. The game will have (lots of) emotions. It’s a derby and we look forward to it. It’s not so much about rankings, where they place. It’s going to be a tough game.

“Palestine has qualified for the 2027 Asian Cup and is ranked in the top 100. So, it’s a challenge for us to go up against a good opponent and see where we stand against them. We want to put our mark on the game, play our football, put a team out there that will make Malaysians proud and excited,” he said during a coffee session with the media here today.

As both matches are set to bring added value in terms of player development and tactical growth, Cklamovski has made it clear that their main objective is to win both games.

He also said that despite the national team’s 4-0 win over Vietnam in June, the focus now is to keep building and improving during the upcoming friendlies.

“Yes, we played well, we scored some good goals, we could have scored more. Positive night, special night at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.

“It’ll stay with me forever, but it’s just three points gained. Now, we know what we can keep getting better at. That’s what we take with us into September,” he said.

World number 125 Malaysia will travel to Laos (world number 185) on Oct 9 for their third Group F match of the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers before welcoming the same opponents Oct 14.

Malaysia currently top Group F with six points, followed by Vietnam with three points; Laos (also three points); and world number 176 Nepal with no points.

-- BERNAMA