PETALING JAYA: The time for excuses is over.
Malaysia’s Under-23 football team are aware that their AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualification hopes hang in the balance and will be counting on striker Haqimi Azim Rosli (pic) to rediscover his scoring touch when they face Mongolia today.
The 22-year-old forward has come under scrutiny for his inconsistency in front of goal but Haqimi remains confident he can deliver when it matters most.
“Players are ready for the tie against Mongolia. We will do our best and collect full three points,” said Haqimi, who plies his trade with Kuala Lumpur in the Super League.
“For the team, there are a lot of young players. In the upcoming games, we must communicate even better and finish our chances.
“We are working hard on our finishing and I believe we can do better against Mongolia.”
Haqimi also spoke about adapting to coach Nafuzi Zain’s philosophy, which emphasises patience and ball possession.
“Under Nafuzi, it has been good. I try to adapt to his tactics. Now that we’ve played some games, I understand what he wants.
“He wants us to keep the ball and create chances through possession. Whoever is fielded will give their best, the main thing is to reach the Asian Cup.”
Malaysia’s campaign got off to a frustrating start when they fell 0-1 to Lebanon in their Group F opener on Wednesday despite dominating large portions of the match at the Thammasat Stadium in Rangsit, Thailand.
That result has left Nafuzi’s men with little margin for error.
Only the group winners advance automatically to the finals in Qatar next year while just four of the best runners-up from 11 groups will also qualify.
After Mongolia, Malaysia will face hosts Thailand on Tuesday in what could be a decisive showdown.
Malaysia last featured in the Asian Cup finals in 2022, where they bowed out in the group stage. Their best achievement remains a quarter-final run in 2018 in China, and for that to be repeated, the young Harimau Muda must rediscover their scoring touch – starting with Haqimi.
