iflix Cup to make debut in this season’s M-League

SUBANG: This year’s M-League season will see the introduction of the inaugural iflix Cup that will pit stars in a match between the northern and southern teams.

The fans decide the team line-ups similar to the National Basketball Association (NBA) All-Star exhibition match concept.

The iflix Cup is slated to be held mid-season, but the details of the match will be announced soon.

While it is seen as a good initiative, there are questions about whether the teams are willing to release their key players. There is also the fear of players getting injured during the iflix Cup.

Malaysian Football League (MFL) director Datuk Yusoff Mahadi said the introduction of the match would add excitement to the M-League.

“Teams should not have problems in releasing their players because each team are allowed to register 30 players,” said Yusoff after the MFL new logo launch here yesterday.

“This is a new concept, and I see it as a way to engage the fans in the M-League, and increase the level of our league.”

Selangor Football Association (FAS) secretary-general Johan Kamal Hamidon said the iflix Cup was a good initiative and teams should be open and supportive of new ideas.

“We need to see this as an opportunity to improve our football industry. I hope the clubs will embrace it and it should draw more fans,” he said.

“It’s a good idea on paper, but the MFL will have a big task to make it work.

Petaling Jaya City FC coach K. Devan echoed Johan’s view and added that coaches needed two or three days to prepare the teams to play in the iflix Cup.

“The player’s fitness won’t be an issue because the M-League will be ongoing.

“Top players don’t need much time to adapt, it’s about getting the right formation into the system,” said Devan.