Holgado could be Harimau Malaya's secret weapon, says critic

New Straits Times

21-05-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: The potential inclusion of Colombia-based striker Rodrigo Holgado in the national team could be a game-changer for Harimau Malaya in their Asian Cup qualifier against Vietnam in Bukit Jalil on June 10.
Malaysia has lacked a reliable goalscorer in recent years and has often had to rely on naturalised midfielders such as Paulo Josue, Sergio Aguero and Romel Morales, who have been converted into strikers.
Brazil-born Josue has scored eight goals in 25 matches since 2023, Argentina-born Aguero has netted three in 17 matches since 2022, while Colombia-born Morales has two goals from nine appearances since making his debut this year.
Holgado, 29, boasts a solid track record with América de Cali, having scored 17 goals in 44 appearances since joining the Colombian side in 2024, credentials that could make him a perfect fit for Malaysia.
Football critic Dr Zulakbal Abdul Karim believes the national team must do everything necessary to secure qualification for the Asian Cup, including strengthening its forward line.
"I've read about this new candidate (Holgado) for the national team. I'm not sure if it's confirmed that he'll play for Malaysia, but it seems the team management is working hard to bolster the squad for the Asian Cup qualifiers," said Zulakbal.
"We still don't have a credible natural striker. We've had to convert midfielders to lead the attack but I still feel we need an out-and-out striker.
"We have to qualify for the Asian Cup and I can see the management is leaving no stone unturned to make it happen.
"For me, it's an acceptable move. We must qualify at any cost. Our football is not perfect but the priority now is qualification."
Zulakbal, who holds an AFC Professional Coaching Diploma, added that integrating Holgado into the squad quickly and effectively will be crucial.
And if everything falls into place, the Argentina-born forward could be Malaysia's secret weapon against Vietnam.
"He's based in Colombia, so there's the challenge of a long flight, adapting to the team, the weather, football culture and the national training system — it won't be easy," said Zulakbal.
"Now it's up to the national team management to speed up his acclimatisation. I believe we have the right experts to help him settle in smoothly.
"If everything goes well, we might have a surprise package in Holgado. Vietnam probably doesn't know much about him."