‘Buffon of Malaysia’ says age is but a number
goalkeeper Suffian Abdul Rahman is known as the Gianluigi Buffon of Malaysian football.
For the 40-year-old Suffian, age is only a number as he is still sharp and flawless between the posts.
Being the No 1 goalkeeper for Terengganu, he will definitely be coach Irfan Bakti’s pick to start against Perak in tomorrow’s Malaysia Cup final at the Shah Alam Stadium.
Suffian last played in a Malaysia Cup final in 2008 where his then team, Selangor, lost 3-2 to Kedah.
The former international, who was Terengganu’s hero in the 3-2 aggregate win over defending champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) in the semi-finals, has pledged to use his experience to help his side attain glory tomorrow.
Terengganu’s only Malaysia Cup success was achieved in 2001.
Suffian said: “At 40, it is a dream come true to play in Saturday’s Malaysia Cup final.
“In training, I work harder than the rest in order to compete with them.
“I was already into coaching after the 2016 season, but Terengganu persuaded me to return before the start of last season.
“I am glad that I made the decision to play again.”
Suffian is an experienced goalkeeper who has played for Negri Sembilan, Telekom Melaka, Selangor, Kuala Muda Naza, Sarawak, Pahang, Felda and Sime Darby.
The goalkeeper said the key to victory tomorrow is to pressure Perak and score early goals.
“It is expected to be a fiery affair. Perak have good local and foreign players.
“However, as long my teammates play to instructions and control their emotions, I believe we can nick the title,” Suffian added.