Under-20 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers: Malayan Tigress All Set For Iran Opener

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 5 (Bernama) -- The national women's junior football team are all set for tomorrow's opening Group F match against Iran in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Under-20 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras here.

Coach Cameron Ng said his Malayan Tigress have undergone two weeks of meticulous training, including intensive training, and gained a deeper tactical understanding.

"I think the preparation for this camp has gone pretty well. We've had good preparation, the players have been training hard, giving 100 per cent in the training sessions… and understanding the tactics that we want to use.

"I think also in terms of fitness and injuries, we have minimal issues," he told the pre-match media conference here today.

While admitting that his players are nervous about the Qualifiers, he also described it as a good sign since they will be up against higher-ranked teams.

"So, even as a coach, if I get nervous, I'm sure the players are getting and feeling nervous as well... but it's all about controlling that nervousness. The players are ready to play.

"If you're not nervous, I don't think you care. So, for me, being a little bit nervous means they're excited to perform. They want to show what they're capable of in front of the home crowd," he said.

Meanwhile, skipper Nur Dhiyaa Addin Zahari is confident that they have a strongly-knit team spirit, which will help them produce positive results.

"I believe we have all struck up a combination,” she said.

After taking on Iran, Malaysia will be up against Japan on Friday (Aug 8) before completing their Group F fixtures against Guam on Sunday (Aug 10). All the matches will be played at the KL Football Stadium.

The eight group winners and three best runners-up will qualify for the AFC Under-20 Women's Asian Cup Finals in Thailand from April 1-18, 2026.

-- BERNAMA