PETALING JAYA: Newly called-up national striker Jordan Mintah (pic) is known for his infectious smile and positive energy, but the Ghanaian-born forward admits that changing the mood in the Harimau Malaya camp after the recent FIFA suspension saga will take more than one man.
The 30-year-old, who officially became a Malaysian citizen in August, said that unity and collective strength are what the national team need most as they prepare for their Asian Cup 2027 third-round qualifiers against Laos.
Last week, FIFA fined the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) 350,000 Swiss francs (RM1.8mil) and imposed 12-month bans on seven mixed-heritage players - Facundo Garces, Jon Irazabal, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, Hector Hevel, Joao Figueiredo and Gabriel Palmero — for irregularities in their registration documents during Malaysia’s qualifier against Vietnam in June.
All seven had quickly established themselves as key players for Malaysia, particularly Figueiredo, who netted three goals in as many appearances.
Mintah, who has been playing in Malaysia since 2020 and currently leads the line for Kuching City, believes that this difficult moment could bring the team closer together.
“I cannot do all this on my own. When you are talking about the national team, everyone has to be strong and united, and do what is best for the country.
Everyone has to bring that positive vibe,” said Mintah.
“Recent stories and speculations have led to a lot of negative thoughts, but we must put them all aside.
“I hope my teammates and management can be one. We are all in this together, we need to push the country forward.”
Mintah’s maiden call-up could not have come at a more crucial time, with Malaysia facing Laos in Vientiane on Oct 9 before the return leg at Bukit Jalil on Oct 14.
The striker said he was deeply honoured by his selection and grateful to coach Peter Cklamovski for believing in him.
“To repay that faith, I’m going to do my best for the country,” he said.
“To be honest, I did not expect it to be this soon, so I guess everything happens because of God’s blessing. I will not let anyone down.
Before reporting for national duty, Mintah will remain focused on helping Kuching City earn a crucial win against Sabah in their Super League clash at the Likas Stadium in Kota Kinabalu today.
“The camp’s motivation is super high at the moment. The players are determined to get three points, and we are praying it happens.”
