BARREN RUN

berth,” said Vingada.

“My players are ready... I have done all I can and now it is up to them to fight hard for the three points.

“They have to follow instructions and play patiently tomorrow. I have options as several Johor Darul Ta’zim players are in the squad.

Vingada, however, did not want to reveal the identity of the player who will replace Safiq as the captain.

“I cannot reveal my new captain. I have three candidates for the responsibility,” he added.

Today’s match was supposed to be held in March with the second leg on Oct 5 in Pyongyang before they were postponed due to security reasons.

North Korea coach Jorn Andersen said he has studied Malaysia’s strengths and weaknesses.

“This is the third time we are preparing for this first round match against Malaysia. We studied Malaysia comprehensively when we were getting ready for the encounters in March and later October before they were postponed.

“I think the decision to play the match now is good for us as Malaysia are without Safiq and defender Aidil Zafuan Radzak,” said Norwegian coach.

Andersen said they want to show their true colours against Malaysia following the 5-0 thrashing by Lebanon last month.

“The weather in Thailand is similar to Malaysia’s, so I think Vingada’s side will adapt faster to the conditions here,” he added.