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The Star
5 days ago
- Sport
- The Star
Malaysia show glimpses of a new identity taking shape after draw with Cape Verde
KUALA LUMPUR: It was not a win but a performance filled with belief, grit, and glimpses of a new identity taking shape. Malaysia coach Peter Cklamovski was full of pride as Harimau Malaya battled to a 1-1 draw against world No. 72 Cape Verde at the Cheras Football Stadium on Thursday night. Despite trailing early and facing a side boasting several Europe-based talents, the Malaysians refused to bow. The hosts adapted and grew stronger as the game progressed. Cape Verde took the lead in the ninth minute through wingback Sidny Cabral, who rifled a powerful finish past the Malaysian defence. But the equaliser, when it came in the 79th minute via Paulo Josue, was well deserved, the result of sustained attacking pressure and smart substitutions from the touchline. For Cklamovski, it wasn't just about the result - it was about the process. "I am proud of the professionalism, the mindset and the way the boys carried themselves," said the Australian tactician, who previously coached FC Tokyo. "We are building something. You could see the layers in our performance, the structure from defence to attack." The match played in front of a lively home crowd, served as part one of a two-match series against Cape Verde with the return fixture set for June 3 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil. While the draw was encouraging, Cklamovski is already focused on sharpening the team further. "We played a very good opponent, with world-class players in their ranks," he said. "From a defensive standpoint, we were brave. We pressed, we took risks and we improved as the game went on. With the ball, there's still a lot to improve and we will bring that into the next match." One of the biggest talking points was Cklamovski's starting 11, which featured seven local players - a bold and refreshing approach. Yet, for the coach, the talk of local, mixed heritage and naturalised players does not matter. "Whether they play abroad or in the Super League, it doesn't matter. I choose the best squad available - players who are ready to give everything for the badge," he stressed. "This camp is unique because of the off-season timing and our phased approach. But the stadium was electric, and the players responded. That connection with the fans was special. "I believe in the potential of Malaysian football. It's time to show the world what Malaysians can do." Meanwhile, Cape Verde coach Pedro 'Bubista' Brito was gracious in praise for the home team. "We're not surprised with Malaysia. Rankings mean little. This is football - anyone can beat anyone," he said. "We fielded 12 new players and are trying to find our rhythm and chemistry. This was a good test and Malaysia gave us a strong game. We wish them all the best in the future."
The Mainichi
23-05-2025
- Sport
- The Mainichi
Football: FC Tokyo bring back former Japan defender Muroya
TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Former Japan defender Sei Muroya will return to FC Tokyo from German second-division club Hannover, the J-League side said Friday. Muroya spent five seasons with Hannover after moving to Germany in 2020. FC Tokyo are currently 16th in the 20-team first-division table. "I'll play hard, with conviction, to play a big part in FC Tokyo's history," the 31-year-old said in a statement. Muroya played for Japan at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
The Mainichi
20-05-2025
- Sport
- The Mainichi
Football: Former Japan defender Muroya to leave Germany's Hannover
TOKYO (Kyodo) -- German second-division team Hannover said Monday former Japan defender Sei Muroya will leave after five seasons with the club. The 31-year-old, who joined Hannover in 2020 from FC Tokyo, will return to Japan, according to the club. Muroya played for Japan at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
