30-05-2025
Josue confident Harimau Malaya can deliver against Vietnam
KUALA LUMPUR: Harimau Malaya forward Paolo Josue believes there are plenty of positives to take from Thursday's 1-1 draw with Cape Verde at the KLFA Stadium.
World No. 72 Cape Verde struck early in the ninth minute through Sidney Cabral, but Josue came off the bench to equalise just a minute after coming on in the 79th minute.
Malaysia will face Cape Verde again in a closed-door friendly at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on June 3, part of their build-up to the crucial Asian Cup qualifier against Vietnam on June 10 at the same venue.
The 36-year-old KL City star has now scored 10 goals in 26 international appearances for Malaysia.
"After tonight, we showed where we are right now," said Josue.
"Everything is going smoothly as we prepare to get the points against Vietnam and keep pushing for a spot in the 2027 Asian Cup Finals.
"It's always special to score for the national team. The coach spoke to me during the week, and with my first touch I got a chance and scored. It was unbelievable — a great night."
Josue noted that the national team had only trained for 10 days before the match.
"But thank God, everything went well. I think they also felt the heat here in Malaysia," he said with a smile.
The veteran praised the team's performance and was especially impressed with debutants Gabriel Palmero and Ubaidullah Shamsul.
"I think the team did very well. We managed to contain an aggressive side and limit their control in midfield.
"Our five-man defence with four in the middle gave them problems in the first half," he said.
"In the second half, the coach made some changes and we created a few chances. I got mine and made it count. Overall, it was a great match for us to see where we stand."
