PETALING JAYA: With the advent of social media, footballers are under even more pressure to perform - even if it is a junior-level competition.
That’s the kind of scrutiny that the Malaysian youngsters will be under as they embark on their AFC Under-17 Asian Cup adventure in Bangkok from June 15-July 2.
But coach Osmera Omaro is calming his charges’ nerves by telling them to enjoy the game and have the belief that their best efforts will help them to go far in the competition.
He is aware that the high expectations set by fans on social media can be an added pressure for his teenage players.
“With social media nowadays, players can end up being under undue pressure on themselves. I want the boys to perform well, that’s all as qualifying for this competition is already quite an achievement for them,’’ said Osmera.
Osmera has selected 24 boys for the tournament and believes they are fit for the challenge despite missing a few key players like Danish Iskandar Marzizul and Danial Idraqi Asmir.
“This is the Asian Cup, the players are spirited and they can’t wait to start.
At this youth level, it’s hard to say whether this is the best team as some players are not mature yet.
“I don’t have some key players with me but the ones I’ve picked are ready. The dynamics will change for sure but I hope the new players will step up and bring something different and better.”
Malaysia are in Group A, and will take on Yemen in their first match at the Thammasat Stadium on Thursday.
They play hosts Thailand at the Pathum Thani Stadium on June 18 and complete their group fixture against Laos at the Thammasat Stadium on June 21. The top two teams from the group will qualify for the knockout stages.
The quarter-finals will be held on June 25 and 26, followed by the semi-finals (June 29) and final (July 2).
The semi-finalists will earn the right to compete in the Under-17 World Cup in November.
Many are hoping that the team can qualify for the World Cup, but Osmera remains cautious.
“We have to be on top form. We’ve beaten teams like the United Arab Emirates in the past. Hopefully, the players can do well and play to their best potential.
“Some of these boys are from different clubs, so it’s hard for them to adjust to new ways but I want them to have self-belief.’’
THE SQUAD
Mokhtar Dahari Academy (Under-17): Aliff Aiman Razali, Farish Farhan Razali, Syazrul Haziq Zainuddin, Faris Danish Mohd Asrul, Afiq Danish Hasniruddin, Afiq Danish Zulkifli, Aiman Yusuf Nabil, Zainurhakimi Zain Azrai, Irfan Zakwan Shamsul Azmi, Anjasmirza Saharudin, Mulia Hairi Muliasugaherto, Nabil Fitri Mustaffa, Raja Norfirdaus Raja Nor, Don Damien Derwin, Ahmad Danial Razali, Dainei Mat Isa and Hairol Syazwan Kamis.
Mokhtar Dahari Academy (Under-16): Afiq Hakimi Mahat, Ryan Fahreen Ahmad Radzi, Irfan Aswad Roslan, Aisy Al-Hakim Hasnizam (Akademi Mokhtar Dahari Under-16).
Johor Darul Ta’zim: Adib Ibrahim Adnan, Nor Ezawi Nor Azman Abdullah (Johor Darul Ta’zim IV).
Kedah C: Arami Wafiy Zakimi.
