ASEAN Cup 2024: Jimmy Raymond, Harith Samsuri Named In Harimau Malaya Squad

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 29 (Bernama) -- Defenders Jimmy Raymond (Kuching City FC) and Muhammad Harith Samsuri (Negeri Sembilan FC) are among the 26 players selected for the Harimau Malaya squad for the 2024 ASEAN Cup campaign, scheduled from Dec 8 to Jan 5, 2025.

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) said that the squad chosen by head coach Pau Marti Vicente includes a balanced mix of experienced and young players, with eight aged 23 and below.

"This is the best team selection possible given the challenges faced for this tournament, which is held outside the FIFA International Match Calendar.

"Additionally, the Malaysian League will continue as scheduled during this period, further complicating player availability," the statement released today read.

A total of 12 players from the 26-member squad who participated in the recent international friendlies against Laos and India have retained their spots. Among them are Haqimi Azim Rosli, Fergus Tierney, Najmudin Akmal Kamal Akmal, Daryl Sham George, and Muhammad Abu Khalil.

"This tournament offers a valuable opportunity to expand the pool of players eligible for the Harimau Malaya squad, particularly with a view towards their participation in future international events, including the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers starting next March," said FAM.

Malaysia will compete in Group A alongside defending champions Thailand, Singapore, Cambodia, and Timor-Leste. Meanwhile, Group B comprises the previous edition's runners-up Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Myanmar, and Laos.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.

Following is the list of 26 players selected by Pau Marti:

-- BERNAMA