KUALA LUMPUR: Breaking down a team built on deep defending can test the patience of any footballer but national captain Dion Cools is ready for the challenge.
Malaysia face Nepal in Group F today in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 third-round qualifier at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil, with the visitors expected to deploy their familiar ‘park the bus’ strategy.
Cools said Malaysia must stay composed and trust their tempo to unlock the stubborn side.
“It’ll be pretty similar to our previous matches. We just need to be patient,” he said.
“If we play high-speed football, stay sharp, be aggressive and play fast, the goals will come.
“Nepal are a team we respect. We’re going in prepared.”
Harimau Malaya defeated Nepal 2-0 in their first meeting back in March.
The 29-year-old Cerezo Osaka player, who has featured in multiple positions throughout his national career with his best spot being the right wingback, said he was ready to assume any roles.
“It doesn’t really matter – I play where the team need me.”
Cools also credited the positive national team atmosphere as a major factor behind the squad’s steady progress under Australian head coach Peter Cklamovski.
“It’s a good group. We stick together, we enjoy being around each other – have coffee, have a chat. Good vibes around the camp. Hopefully, that transcends onto the pitch. We want to show the results on the field with a strong performance.”
Malaysia, who sit atop Group F with 12 points from four matches, will be aiming for another three points to keep their qualification charge on track, while Nepal are expected to once again rely on their disciplined defensive organisation.
But with confidence high and momentum building, Cools believes Harimau Malaya are ready to rise to the occasion.
