Harimau Malaya to face Cape Verde in historic friendly
World No. 72 Cape Verde are expected to provide a stern test for 131st-ranked Malaysia ahead of their crunch Asian Cup Group F qualifier against Vietnam on June 10.
The Blue Sharks, who reached the last 16 of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, boast a squad brimming with experience from top leagues across Europe and the United States.
Among their key players are Logan Costa (Villarreal), Steven Moreira (Columbus Crew), Gilson Tavares (Akron Tolyatti), Ryan Mendes (Kocaelispor) and veteran goalkeeper Vozinha of GD Chaves.
Rising star Dailon Livramento, currently on the books of Serie A side Hellas Verona, adds youthful spark to their lineup.
Peter Cklamovski's men will lock horns with Cape Verde again in a closed-door training match in Bukit Jalil on June 3.
In a statement, the FA of Malaysia (FAM) said both matches are crucial in preparing the national team for the must-win qualifier against Vietnam.
"These games are designed to give the national team competitive minutes and strategic exposure ahead of the Vietnam match," said FAM.
Malaysia kicked off their Asian Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-0 win over Nepal at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in March, while Vietnam hammered Laos 5-0 in their opener.
Tickets for the Cape Verde and Vietnam matches go on sale from May 12 at www.tickethotline.com.my.
Prices for the Cape Verde game are RM40 (open seating) and RM5 for children aged between five and 12.
For the Vietnam clash, ticket prices are RM40 (open), RM60 (grandstand), RM70 (premium), and RM5 for children.
All tickets will be sold exclusively online.
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