Aliff speaks the brutal truth after AFF exit

The Star

3 days ago

Blunt: Aliff admitted that a lack of hunger in front of goal was what cost the team dearly. — FAM
PETALING JAYA: It takes courage to speak hard truths and winger Aliff Izwan Yuslan has done just that.
The 21-year-old admitted that a lack of hunger in front of goal was the key reason behind Malaysia's early exit from the recent AFF Under-23 Championship in Indonesia.
While some of his teammates pointed fingers at poor communication and inexperience, the Selangor player, one of the few standout performers in the tournament, believes the young Harimau Muda side lacked the cutting edge to score, despite creating a flurry of chances throughout their Group A campaign.
Malaysia suffered a 0-2 loss to the Philippines, defeated Brunei 7-1 and were held to a goalless draw by Indonesia at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta.
'We had so many chances in all three games, but we didn't make them count. Our conversion rate wasn't good,' said the left-footed winger, known for his pace and trickery down the flanks.
'Even Brunei had only one clear chance against us but they scored because they were committed to it. That's what we lacked - the final bit of desire to put the ball in the net.'
Malaysia, under coach Nafuzi Zain, created an impressive 70 chances over three games - but only seven goals were scored, with seven of them coming in one match against a weakened Brunei side.
Aliff dismissed suggestions that on-field communication was a major issue.
'We've known each other for a long time. Communication wasn't the problem. It's just the chemistry on the pitch that needs a bit more work, especially with some new faces in the squad. That will take time.'
Despite being one of the more consistent players during the campaign, Aliff wasn't entirely satisfied with his own performance, saying that he didn't score and assist, despite the number of chances he created from the flanks.
With eyes now fixed on the AFC Under-23 Asian Cup qualifiers in September, where Malaysia will face Thailand, Lebanon, and Mongolia, he knows the road ahead will be even tougher.
'I'm a little disappointed with myself because I couldn't help the team more,' he admitted.
'But I'll make sure we qualify for the Asian Cup. We'll do better in the qualifiers.'