Latest news with #Under-23AseanChampionship
New Straits Times
21-07-2025
- Sport
- New Straits Times
AFC distances itself from Malaysia's potential FIFA suspension
KUALA LUMPUR: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has distanced itself from explosive claims that Malaysia could be suspended by FIFA over the alleged misuse of player naturalisation rules. The allegations, made by Indonesian football pundit Justinus Lhaksana, better known as Coach Justin, suggested that the FA of Malaysia (FAM) had bypassed international eligibility regulations to field several South American-born players. In his podcast "Bukan Bincang Sepak Bola Biasa", Justin accused Malaysia of using players with "fabricated lineage" and claimed FIFA could impose sanctions, including possible suspension until 2027. However, neither FIFA nor the AFC has issued any confirmation. AFC general-secretary Datuk Seri Windsor Paul dismissed the speculation, making it clear that any action related to eligibility falls under FIFA's jurisdiction, not the AFC's. "We have not been informed of any suspension. Moreover, FAM would know first before anyone else," said Windsor. "AFC has no information, as such matters come under the purview of FIFA." The allegations surfaced after five South American-born players — Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, Jon Irazabal, Joao Figueiredo and Facundo Garces — featured in Harimau Malaya's 4-0 win over Vietnam in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers on June 10. Coach Justin also claimed that Malaysia's involvement in the ongoing Under-23 Asean Championship — a tournament organised by the Asean Football Federation (AFF) — was only possible because it is a non-FIFA-sanctioned competition. But without any official comment or evidence from FIFA, the claims remain unsubstantiated and speculative. The FA of Malaysia (FAM) was unavailable for comment when contacted.
New Straits Times
19-07-2025
- Sport
- New Straits Times
Is there something wrong with the Malaysia team?
KUALA LUMPUR: The manner in which Malaysia players celebrated their goals in the 7-1 rout of Brunei at the Under-23 Asean Championship, has got former international Hasnizam Uzir concerned. Malaysia, who were embarrased 2-0 by the Philippines in their Group A opener, bounced back with the big win over Brunei at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta on Friday. However, Hasnizam wondered how united is the Malaysian team. The pundit felt that something was troubling the team despite Malaysia scoring many goals. "If you look at the goal celebrations, not all 11 players were involved. That tells you something," said Hasnizam. "A united and strong team celebrate together. This might seem trivial, but it reflects psychological health and cohesion. When celebrations are collective and spontaneous, it shows the team is on the same page, mentally and emotionally." Haqimi Azim Rosli, who scored two goals against Brunei, said: "We are grateful for this win. It helps to boost our morale for the game against Indonesia." Malaysia face Indonesia — who had beaten the Philippines 1-0 — in a do-or-die match on Monday to reach the semi-finals.
New Straits Times
17-07-2025
- Sport
- New Straits Times
Young Tigers urged to find their bite after shock Asean defeat
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia must beat Brunei in their second Group A match at the Under-23 Asean Championship in Jakarta on Friday to keep their hopes alive after a shock 2-0 defeat to the Philippines in their opener. Coach Nafuzi Zain blamed early defensive lapses and a lack of composure for Tuesday's loss but praised his young players for their fighting spirit. With most of his squad aged between 19 and 21, Nafuzi believes the experience will help them grow, but admitted their issues in attack and defence must be resolved immediately. Key players Alif Izzuan and Haqimi Azim Rosli are doubtful for the Brunei clash, adding to Malaysia's problems. The Young Tigers now sit third in the group, behind the Philippines and hosts Indonesia, who hammered Brunei 8-0 on Tuesday. Only the group winners advance to the semi-finals, leaving Nafuzi's side with no choice but to win both remaining matches, starting with Brunei. "We can't dwell on the defeat," said Nafuzi. "We must fix our shortcomings, especially in defence and attack. The Brunei match is crucial, and we'll do whatever it takes to win." The defeat to the Philippines has reignited concerns over Malaysia's youth development system, especially as the senior team have enjoyed some success recently with naturalised players. On Tuesday, Malaysia registered 21 shots, hit the post twice and had a goal disallowed, but again, poor finishing proved costly, a recurring issue in recent tournaments. Still, Nafuzi remains hopeful. He urged fans to keep the faith. "Fan support is important. Even if they're not in Jakarta, I know we still have backing from home," he said. "I apologise for not delivering a win, but we'll improve our preparations for the Brunei and Indonesia matches." Meanwhile, Brunei coach Aminuddin Jumat is using the tournament to give his young players exposure to top-level regional football. Despite the thrashing by Indonesia, he believes the experience will benefit the team in the long run. "There are many talented players in the region. We came here with clear objectives and to compete with courage," said Aminuddin. "We'll take this tournament one game at a time." With their backs against the wall, Malaysia must now deliver. Anything less than three points against Brunei will almost certainly end their Asean campaign. FIXTURES Tomorrow (July 18) Group A Brunei v Malaysia (6pm) Philippines v Indonesia (9pm)
New Straits Times
16-07-2025
- Sport
- New Straits Times
No excuses: U-23 loss exposes cracks in Malaysia's 'football revolution'
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia had no business losing to the Philippines at the Under-23 Asean Championship, especially with the country in the midst of a self-declared football revolution. On Tuesday, Nafuzi Zain's side were expected to steamroll the Philippines in their Group A opener, but instead slumped to a shocking 2-0 defeat in Jakarta, with 18-year-old Otu Bisong netting both goals. The Young Tigers dominated with 70 per cent possession, but their poor shot accuracy — just 23 per cent compared to the Philippines' 43 — proved costly. Despite fielding nine players from the squad that won the Under-19 Asean Championship three years ago in Indonesia, Malaysia looked stagnant. Their three warm-up matches before flying to Jakarta appeared insufficient. Football critic Dr Zulakbal Abdul Karim didn't hold back in his assessment, saying the team looked unprepared. "They were slow to settle and seemed nervous, conceding early and late in the first half," said Zulakbal. "We had chances but couldn't convert them — that shows the preparation wasn't good enough. "The Philippines, under no pressure, played simple football and got the win. "When our senior team beat Vietnam 4-0 (in last month's Asian Cup qualifier), it gave a huge lift to Malaysian football. But confidence without proper preparation is dangerous. "We're seeing so-called weaker teams like Cambodia, Laos and the Philippines improving. The gap is narrowing." Zulakbal said Malaysia must quickly move past the defeat, as their mental strength will be tested in Friday's match against Brunei and Monday's clash with hosts Indonesia. Coach Nafuzi. whose "Nafuzi Ball" brand of play once brought excitement to the Super League with Terengganu and Kedah, must now dig deep tactically to lift the squad. "It's now a do-or-die mission for the U-23 side. The players must respond positively. A good coach lifts morale and finds solutions," said Zulakbal.
