PETALING JAYA: The Harimau Malaya, who are adapting well to the philosophy and playing style of Korean Kim Pan-gon, can win the Merdeka Tournament, even though the other teams are ranked above them.
Midfielder Endrick Dos Santos believes that, in the tournament beginning Oct 13, Malaysia can match the other teams - Palestine, India and Tajikistan.
Palestine are ranked 93rd, India 101st while Tajikistan are ranked 109th. Malaysia sit at No 138 in the rankings. However, Dos Santos, a naturalised player who started playing for the national side in March, believes Malaysia have a fighting chance.
“We are playing with more confidence now as we understand the playing style and approach of our coach. Now things are becoming easy,” said the Brazilian during Harimau Malaya’s training session at the FAM grounds in Kelana Jaya yesterday.
“Although we are playing against national teams who are stronger and ranked higher, we can win the Merdeka Tournament.
“I’ve heard about this tournament before which is very famous here and our plan is to try and win our matches and become the champions.
“We played with better confidence in friendlies against Syria and China last month and want to play better this time.”
Dos Santos, who plays as a midfielder for his club Johor Darul Ta’zim has been utilised as a winger by Pan-gon. He has yet to score in five appearances for Malaysia but the Brazilian is unperturbed.
“The goal will come at the right time,” said the 28-year-old. “I just do what the coach wants from me.
“I try to help the teammates and I get a lot assists. That is my strength. We are looking forward to playing at the National Stadium again.”
