No excuse for Malaysia not to beat Bhutan as their pride’s at stake
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s pride is at stake when they host Bhutan in an international friendly match at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil today.
On paper, indications are favouring Harimau Malaya to end their 12- match winless streak and the team know failure is not an option.
A win was expected when Malaysia hosted Mongolia in a friendly on March 22 but it ended with a 2-2 draw.
Hopes are high based on Malaysia’s improved performance in their 1-2 loss to Lebanon in the Asian Cup qualifier in Beirut last Tuesday.
Pressure is mounting for coach Tan Cheng Hoe’s men to register their first win since November 2016.
The Football Association of Malaysia have arranged more FIFA A-rated friendlies to help Malaysia climb the world rankings. Malaysia currently lie at 178th spot.
There is no reason for Malaysia not to beat world No. 188 Bhutan, who travelled to Kuala Lumpur on the back of a 7- 0 thrashing by Maldives in the Asian Cup qualifier on Wednesday.
While stressing the importance of registering their first win in 16 months, Cheng Hoe was quick to warn his players not to take Bhutan for granted.
“I’ve no doubt that Bhutan will give us a tough match tomorrow, we are not going to underestimate anyone,” said Cheng Hoe at a pre-match press conference yesterday.
“Football is always funny. Sometimes a team can rise to the occasion when it comes to friendlies, and play much better than they do in a competition,” said Cheng Hoe.
“I want nothing but a win. We’re hungry for a win and we need to win.
“I’m just hoping that the team will build on the decent performance against Lebanon. I can see the players slowly beginning to gel with each other, and the team spirit is high.”
Bhutan head coach Trevor Morgan conceded Malaysia were a superior side and wanted his team to perform better.
“Our players are without match sharpness and fitness to cope with a competitive game. Most of them are not playing competitively after the domestic season ended last September.
“It’ll be a tough test for us but we need to play stronger teams to improve and move forward.”