PETALING JAYA: National women’s football team goalkeeper Nur Azurin Mazlan (pic) has returned home with renewed zeal after a successful five-month stint in the European league.
The 25-year-old shot-stopper had played for KFF Vllaznia in the Albanian women’s league (Kategoria Superiore Femra) since January and went on to help them win the league.
Azurin said the valuable experience had made her a better player and person.
“The game intensity was different. It was fast, aggressive, and tactical,” said Azurin.
“You really see the gap between UEFA Champions League-level women teams and where we stand in Malaysia.
“In fact, one of the girls asked me – where is Malaysia? I was shocked.
“But I also realised that this is our reality – we’re a small footballing nation although we have a rich background, passionate fans, and talented players.
“I hope what I’ve learnt from Albania can help our national team. There were a lot of new experiences and challenges that I hope to share with my teammates,” she said.
Azurin is one of the key figures in the Malaysian Tigress squad. She and her teammates have started their training camp under new coach Joel Cornelli from Brazil.
They are scheduled to play in international friendlies against Bhutan and Hong Kong before heading to Dushanbe, Tajikistan, for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers from June 23-July 5.
“Honestly, most of the players are adapting. It’s a new environment. But that’s part of the process – we have to go through the changes if we want to grow,” said Azurin.
“The new coach has a strong background, and we’re excited to learn new systems and tactics. Get new perspectives.”
Having broken barriers overseas, Azurin now finds herself in a new kind of leadership role. She’s not just a goalkeeper anymore – she’s an example of what’s possible and is determined to pass that belief on to the next generation.
