Malaysia coach: We are not afraid of any opponent

Opening the press conference, Coach Kim Pan Gon of the Malaysian team said: "Despite our failure in the previous AFF Cup, we are back. The whole team went through difficult matches in the continental arena in the middle of this year. I would like to confirm that we are not afraid of any opponent."

Coach Kim Pan Gon. Photo: Hai Hoang

He added: “We all know that Vietnam is one of the strongest teams in the region. We all know their strengths and weaknesses. I will not share with the media today. The players are recovering well and are ready for the upcoming match. The weather here is different from that in Malaysia, but I do not think that can affect the match."

The Malaysian coach said his team is not afraid of any opponent. Photo: Hai Hoang

When asked if this was the most difficult match since leading Malaysia, the Korean coach admitted that it was true, he said: “This is one of the most difficult matches for Malaysia. The Vietnam team has improved a lot in recent years. They have proven their ability through big matches. Although Malaysia failed in the previous AFF Cup, we are coming back. The whole team went through difficult matches in the continental arena in the middle of this year. I can confirm that we are not afraid of any opponent, including Vietnam.”

Coach Kim Pan Gon and player Faisal Halim. Photo: Hai Hoang

Regarding the use of naturalized players, Coach Kim shared: “I am also a little worried. It is not easy for foreign players to become Malaysian citizens and play for the national team. I hope my choices can make the country proud.” Meanwhile, player Faisal Halim, who has scored 3 goals for Malaysia since the beginning of the tournament, expressed his determination: “This is a difficult match for us. There are many new players facing Vietnam. Of course, I will try to continue scoring for the team. We came here to win. Whether I score or not is not important. The Vietnamese players are all good, but we are not afraid.”

“People may not believe in the current Malaysian squad, with the absence of many key players. The Malaysian team is different now, but I believe in myself and my teammates. The people here are the best. No one wants to bring bad results home. We also believe in the head coach and will give our best,” Faisal concluded.