Paulo Josue urges Harimau Malaya fans to fill stadium despite Man Utd hype
For the record, 70,000 tickets have been sold for the English Premier League (EPL) giant's match against the Asean All-Stars, a team comprised of top players from across the region.
Josue. Photo from Malaysia NT Facebook
SHAH ALAM – Harimau Malaya naturalised player, Paulo Josue hopes fans will fill the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras to support the national squad as they face Cape Verde in an international friendly on Thursday.
The experienced midfielder believes fan support is crucial for the squad led by Peter Cklamovski, even though the match takes place just a day after the high-profile game between Manchester United and the Asean All-Stars at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
For the record, 70,000 tickets have been sold for the English Premier League (EPL) giant's match against the Asean All-Stars, a team comprised of top players from across the region.
'This is the first time Manchester United are back in Malaysia. The EPL is extremely popular here, with many fans watching their matches every morning or night.
"Even though their EPL performance hasn't been very impressive lately, they're still a big global brand. I hope they enjoy their time in Kuala Lumpur, including the stadium atmosphere and the warm welcome from Malaysian fans.
"At the same time, I also hope local football fans will come and support Harimau Malaya the next day. The presence of supporters means a lot to us,' he said during the pre-match press conference on Wednesday.
The Kuala Lumpur City captain views the match against 72nd-ranked Cape Verde as an important test to gauge Harimau Malaya's true capabilities when facing a high-level team.
'It's definitely going to be tough for us, but matches like this are very important — playing against strong teams shows where we really stand in terms of physical and mental strength.
"It's a big challenge, but it's something we must face. It'll also be a great experience for all of us. The opposing team will also be competing in the World Cup and have a higher ranking, as everyone knows. So, of course, it'll be a tough battle for us. But we're excited to take them on and see how big the gap really is between us and them,' he said.
More Like This
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New Straits Times
an hour ago
- New Straits Times
Spalletti confident in Italy's quest for World Cup return
OSLO: Italy manager Luciano Spalletti is framing Friday's clash at Norway as a decisive moment in their 2026 World Cup qualification and says his side are fully equipped to deliver. Spalletti's side begin their qualifying campaign in Group I in Oslo against hosts off to a flying start with six points from two matches and nine goals scored. Four-time World Cup champions Italy have failed to reach the World Cup finals since 2014, and are only now beginning their qualifiers after competing in the Nations League quarter-finals in March, where they lost to Germany. "Let's be clear: in Norway, everything is on the line when it comes to whether or not we'll qualify for the World Cup," Spalletti told reporters. "We have a duty to fulfil this task that's been entrusted to us. We need to qualify because it's absolutely crucial for us. "As for us, we have everything we need to play our game. We have all the potential for a great match, and that's exactly what we intend to put into practice." Norway coach Stale Solbakken was also optimistic. "I'm not sure they're the favourites. For me, it's more of a 50–50 match on our home ground," he told reporters. "The most important thing for us is that we are ourselves." The 2026 World Cup will take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States from 11 June to 19 July next year.
Hype Malaysia
an hour ago
- Hype Malaysia
6 Top Airbnb Eco-Stays In Southeast Asia That Are Next-Level Getaways
As World Environment Day approaches, the call to reconnect with the natural world feels more meaningful than ever. In an age of fast-paced living and constant connectivity, escaping into nature has become more than a trend – it's a much-needed reset. Southeast Asia, with its lush rainforests and soaring mountains, offers a treasure trove of picturesque escapes where travellers can unwind, recharge, and find inspiration in nature's quiet beauty. From the wild greenery of Malaysia to the tranquil landscapes of Thailand and Indonesia, we've rounded up some of the most extraordinary nature-based stays on Airbnb. Each one offers a unique chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with what really matters – calm, clarity, and the great outdoors. Rainforest Retreat, Bentong, Malaysia Nestled amidst the lush Malaysian rainforest in Janda Baik, just a 40-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur, this private retreat is one of the many hidden gems located in Bentong, Pahang. Offering a serene escape from the bustling city, this tranquil oasis is surrounded by breathtaking greenery, soothing echoes of wildlife, and a nearby stream. Ideal for a peaceful retreat, this stay offers ample space to relax and unwind with friends and family. Enjoy barbeques under the stars or simply savour the beauty of nature from the verandah. Explore nearby attractions such as Genting Highlands or one of the stunning waterfalls in the area. Alamanda Tropical Wooden Villa, Langkawi, Malaysia Located just 15 minutes from the popular Cenang Beach, this charming Langkawi villa is a perfect addition to your island itinerary. Indulge and experience traditional Malay architecture while enjoying panoramic views of lush paddy fields and majestic mountains. Take a refreshing dip in the communal pool, unwind with peaceful sunsets, or stargaze beneath the clear night sky. Bouquet House Chiangrai, Chiang Rai, Thailand Experience nature in unparalleled luxury at this stunning two bedroom eco-luxury lodge in Thailand's most northern province. The warm wooden and spacious interiors vibe with rustic elegance while each bedroom has a private balcony from which you can soak in the natural surroundings and enjoy a view of the garden pool. Make this your base from which to explore the surrounding mountains, forests and tea plantations for which Chiang Rai is famous. Secret Window Residency, Chiang Mai, Thailand Once you've arrived, you will never want to leave. This one bedroom cabin was inspired by a writer's cabin and is an escape from the chaos, where guests can unwind and recharge surrounded by nature, complete with a writer's cabin-themed space. Mountain views and a nearby stream set the theme for relaxation while cycling trips are available for the more adventurous. There's even a camping fire for that 'get back to nature' feeling, a caravan, in-room massages and hundreds of books to lose yourself in. A Bamboo Villa in Sidemen, Bali, Indonesia While Bali is renowned for its beauty and vibrant neighborhoods, why not go the extra mile to explore East Bali and find serenity? Located in the heart of Sidemen, this bamboo villa offers peace of mind as you wake up to breathtaking views of rice paddies and the gentle sound of birds chirping. Immerse yourself in nature and make the most of your time by engaging all five senses to fully embrace the day. Additionally, be sure to explore nearby cultural sites like Besakih Temple that is known as the Mother Temple of Bali, or relax at the hidden gem, Virgin Beach. Maeva Villa, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia Discover another stunning natural charm in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. Get lost in the amazing beaches surrounded by mountains while staying at Maeva Villa, where you can soak in the views from every corner. Situated at the top of a hill in a quiet cul-de-sac, this fully equipped villa invites you to unwind and enjoy its exceptional comfort all day long. Discover your next eco-getaway and travel greener at What's your Reaction? +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0
New Straits Times
4 hours ago
- New Straits Times
'Flying' roti canai draws huge crowds to Malaysia Pavilion in Osaka
OSAKA: The "Flying Roti Canai" has quickly become a crowd-puller at Expo 2025 Osaka, drawing visitors to the Malaysia Pavilion with its skilful preparation and the irresistible buttery aroma wafting through the air. The sight of roti canai being expertly tossed high into the air by Muhammad Muiz Ruzaini and Mohamad Zul Imran Zulkifle, combined with the tempting aroma, has whetted the appetites of visitors. Some are willing to queue for up to two hours. Muiz said he did not expect to be selected as part of the Malaysian delegation to Expo 2025 Osaka, where he would showcase the rich flavours of Malaysian cuisine on the world stage. What makes the experience even more rewarding is the overwhelming response from visitors, said the Kedahan. "Many praised the deliciousness of the roti canai and gave very positive feedback, both in terms of taste and our presentation. "After they ate, many would come up and say 'oishī' (delicious). Some even repeated it seven times," he said, adding that most of the visitors were from Japan, South Korea and China. The freshly made roti canai, served with chicken curry and dhal, is priced at 1,680 yen per serving. Daily sales average between 1,000 and 1,600 pieces, underscoring its growing popularity among visitors from Japan, South Korea, China, and beyond. Roti canai is a pan-fried flatbread that is a popular breakfast choice in Malaysia, made from a mixture of flour, water, salt, butter and eggs. The dough is skillfully stretched, flipped and spun in the air to create a layered texture - crispy and flaky on the outside but soft on the inside. In 2023, TasteAtlas, a global food database, ranked roti canai among the "Top 100 Best Street Foods in the World." Meanwhile, Mohamad Zul Imran, a roti canai maker from Penang, expressed hope that the growing popularity of roti canai at the Expo would help elevate it on the global culinary map and inspire more tourists to visit Malaysia. "I hope the Malaysia Pavilion roti canai becomes the number one dish at Expo 2025," he said. Japanese visitor Yoko Yoshinaga described the dish as 'sweet, had a unique texture, and addictive'. "This is my second time having roti canai. I first saw it on X (formerly Twitter), and the unforgettable taste brought me back. "I lined up again just to relive the experience," she said. Yoshinaga, who visited Malaysia 30 years ago, praised the nation's development, calling it a peaceful and modern country. Another visitor, Hanako Sekimukai, who tried roti canai for the first time, said she was pleasantly surprised by its flavour. "I've been to Malaysia before, but I never had the chance to try roti canai. The chicken curry served with it wasn't too spicy, which made it even more enjoyable," she said, adding that the cultural performances at the pavilion brought back fond memories of her time in Malaysia. Located on a 2,654.52-square-metre site across three floors, the Malaysia Pavilion reflects the nation's diverse culture and dynamic economy. Under the theme "Weaving a Future in Harmony", the pavilion highlights Malaysia's commitment to a sustainable, inclusive and forward-looking future.
