Rajagobal to make major changes for Laos match

National coach Datuk K. Rajagobal is set to make major changes to his squad ahead of their second Group B AFF Suzuki Cup match against Laos at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil, on Wednesday.

He said a few positions in the squad need to be strengthened for the crucial match to ensure they can win against Laos.

"I know the game against Laos is very important to us and of course my focus is to clinch all three points. I will make (major) changes in the line up for the game against Laos but I cannot reveal who will be fielded or dropped," he told reporters after attending a managers meeting at Seri Kembangan, on Tuesday.

The 0-3 loss against arch-rival Singapore on Sunday saw the national squad endure an arduous task as they now face a 'must win situation' against Laos tomorrow and Indonesia on Dec 1, to revive their hopes of booking a semi-final berth.

He also reminded all the players to forget the loss against Singapore and look forward for the crucial game against Laos.

"Yes, I admit we lost (to Singapore's) and I believe everyone knows that we we did not live up to our expectation (as a defending champions) but now its for the players to forget about the defeat and stay focused for the next match," he said.

Commenting on Laos' performance, Rajagobal said he was aware of the situation and would not underestimate the team coached by Japan's Kokichi Kimura.

"Laos is a good team, they were fast in attack, the players were well-organised this year," he said.

Meanwhile, Kokichi said he wants his boys to give their best shot in tomorrow's match to ensure their path to the semi-final.

"If Malaysia can perform 100 percent, I demand my boys to give 120 percent for the game to ensure we can clinch all three points," he said.