Sea Games: Harimau Muda will have no problem against Brunei
Bernama
December 9, 2013 07:49 MYT
December 9, 2013 07:49 MYT
Malaysia who are represented by Harimau Muda A are expecting a win in the first match against Brunei at Zayar Thiri Stadium tomorrow.
Coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee said the first match is very important for the squad as the three points will facilitate defence of the gold medal won at 2011 Indonesia SEA Games.
"We have to get the first win against Brunei tomorrow to give us a good start," he told reporters during training at the tournament venue.
Malaysia are drawn in Group B along with Vietnam, Singapore, Brunei and Laos.
The Group B curtain raiser yesterday saw Brunei losing 0-7 to Vietnam while Singapore and Laos drew 1-1.
Kim Swee cautioned the players against complacency when facing Brunei and reminded them to focus on the match as planned.
"Brunei are below us in ranking and have not played internationally since suspended by the International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA) in 2009.
"The Brunei players are still searching for rhythm after almost two years out in the cold."
The Football Association of Brunei was suspended for two years by FIFA who found elements of government intervention in their management.