Cklamovski: Cape Verde friendlies key to Harimau Malaya's rise
KUALA LUMPUR: National coach Peter Cklamovski insists the upcoming friendlies against Cape Verde are far more than just warm-up matches — they're a vital part of Harimau Malaya 's preparations for next month's Asian Cup qualifier against Vietnam.
Malaysia will face Cape Verde for the first time on May 29 at the KLFA Stadium in Cheras.
The African side, ranked 72nd in the world, is one of the strongest opponents world No. 131 Malaysia have faced under the Australian tactician.
"This is a unique period for us as a national team," said Cklamovski.
"The majority of our players are coming off the off-season, and most haven't played a competitive match in four to five weeks.
"I see this preparation window and our camp as absolutely crucial as we build towards the all-important match against Vietnam on June 10."
The clash with Cape Verde is the first of two friendlies, with the second being a closed-door non-A match scheduled for June 3.
The first fixture falls outside the official FIFA window (June 1-10).
The Vietnam match could be decisive for Harimau Malaya's hopes of reaching the 2027 Asian Cup Finals in Saudi Arabia.
Cklamovski believes facing Cape Verde will provide a valuable benchmark for his squad.
"We chose Cape Verde because they offer a high-level challenge. They're one of the top-performing African nations right now, with a squad packed with players based in Europe.
"They have real quality and will give us a great chance to measure ourselves."
Cape Verde's top stars include Villarreal defender Logan Costa, MLS regular Steven Moreira of Columbus Crew and Akron Tolyatti striker Gilson Tavares.
Captain Ryan Mendes, who plays for Turkish side Kocaelispor, veteran goalkeeper Vozinha and rising talent Dailon Livramento of Hellas Verona complete a formidable lineup.
Cklamovski is adamant that only by taking on such opposition can Malaysia raise their standards.
"As a national team, we must challenge ourselves. If we want to grow into the team we aspire to be, we need to leave our comfort zone, face top-class teams, and learn from the experience," he said.
The FA of Malaysia (FAM), in announcing the friendlies, said the matches are part of a strategy to give the national side "competitive minutes and strategic exposure" ahead of the Vietnam clash.
Harimau Malaya began their Asian Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-0 win over Nepal in March, while Vietnam laid down an early marker with a thumping 5-0 victory over Laos.
For Cklamovski, the Cape Verde fixtures are far more than a tune-up.
"They're not just friendly matches. They are an essential part of our development and long-term journey," he said.
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