Useful China trip for national squad
AFTER a creditable performance in a tournament in China, the national futsal squad will play two international friendlies in their preparation for the Sea Games in August.
“We will have two international ‘A’ friendlies in Kuala Lumpur, but the teams haven’t been confirmed yet. The matches may be held in July or August,” said Chiew Chun Yong, coach of the national futsal squad upon their return yesterday from China.
Malaysia finished third among four teams in an international tournament in Hunan last week.
Malaysia, ranked 69th in the world, drew 3-3 with World No. 20 Czech Republic, beat World No 49 China 5-4 and lost to World No 64 England 5-0.
“It was a good result drawing with the Czech Republic who were the highest-ranked team in the tournament.
“If we had not missed our golden chance in the last minute, we might have created an upset by beating them.
“The same goes for the match against the Chinese team. Our boys took their chances well. Unfortunately, in the match against England, our team lacked a bit in the physical aspect, and fitnesswise as well,” said Chiew.
He said the championship was a good tournament to test the national squad’s tactical ability.
Chiew said the shortcoming in terms of physical fitness would be addressed in the preparation for the Sea Games.
“That’s my main worry. The players have to work on that ahead of the Sea Games. From my observation, the players were able to adapt to new tactical aspects.”
He said the 14 players who participated in the Chinese tournament are not the final list for the Sea Games as four more players will join national training on Monday.