Kim Swee’s boys ready for big guns Iraq

GREECE’S fairytale victory at the 2004 European Championship should be the inspiration for the national team when they begin their campaign at the AFC Under-23 Championships in China today.

Ong Kim Swee’s charges, who on paper are the weakest team in Group C, will open against 2013 champions Iraq at the Changshu Stadium.

Iraq had also finished third in 2016.

There is not much expectation on the Malaysian team who also have Saudi Arabia and Jordan for company in Group C.

Similarly, Greece were not given a chance going into Euro 2004 but they proved the doubters wrong, and Kim Swee is hoping his players will also be able to upset the form book in China.

“We did not come here just to make up the numbers. What is important is that we go out with success,” said Kim Swee yesterday.

“At the same time, the players should also take the opportunity to gain as much experience as possible from each of our matches.”

The former national senior team coach is sticking to about the same group of players that reached the final of the Kuala Lumpur Sea Games last year. Only seven new faces have been called up.

Kim Swee is confident his players are ready to face Iraq despite the cold weather expected to be a major factor.

“There is no denying that Iraq are a strong team both at the youth and senior level.

“We really have to play at a higher level than we have before to compete with Iraq.

“I believe we can pull off a positive result if we approach the game right from a tactical perspective.”

Kim Swee's squad are injury free while Iraq will be without key players Aymen Hussein, who scored six goals during the qualifiers, and Ahmad Mohsen Jaber who are both suspended. Aziman Rosdi