Number one mission: Azri Ghani is going all out for a standout year with Kuala Lumpur which he believes will determine his future with Harimau Malaya.
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s second-choice goalkeeper Azri Ghani has his hands full for the 2024-2025 season.
The 24-year-old Azri, who played second fiddle to Ahmad Syihan Hazmi in the Asian Cup, is seeking a standout year with Kuala Lumpur which he believes will determine his future with the Harimau Malaya.He is gunning for the number one custodian’s spot in KL after Kevin Ray Mendoza’s departure to Persib Bandung in November last year.
Though Azri is fancied to be the City Boys’ first choice, he is wary of stiff competition from Azim Al-Amin, a reliable keeper who has played for the Malaysia Under-23 squad in the last two years.
“This is going to be an important season for me. When Kevin left, I was the first choice but the 2024-2025 season is a new chapter.
“I’ve to start all over again and fight for the number one spot,” said Azri, who has also featured for Kedah, Perak and Felda United.
“I’ve to be focused on keeping the No. 1 spot, which means I’ve to be at my 100 per cent during training sessions. The aim is to get regular action and help the club do well.
“If that happens, I am sure I will stay in the reckoning for the No. 1 goalkeeper spot in the national team.
“I also aim to get at least one start with the national team this year.”
Azri was a regular for the Malaysia Under-23 team from 2018 to 2022 and is noted for his excellent shot stopping despite standing only 1.78m (5’8’’), which is considered short for a goalkeeper.
On the Asian Cup, Azri said he was honoured to be part of the experience despite not playing a game.
“Being able to use the training facilities, seeing the stadium and being part of the atmosphere. It was amazing. I loved it and hope that it will not be my only time in the Asian Cup.
“As for training with Syihan and Sikh Izhan Nazrel Sikh Azman, it was good. But we all know, to be the first-choice goalkeeper for the national team, we need regular starts with our clubs.
“The Asian Cup has given me the impetus to do better in the new season.”
