PETALING JAYA: National winger Faisal Halim admits that missing out on qualification for the 2027 Asian Cup would be a huge blow, but insists Harimau Malaya remain focused on completing their campaign on a high.
The 27-year-old said the team cannot afford to dwell on the uncertainty stemming from FIFA’s suspension of seven Malaysian players, stressing that their commitment on the pitch remains unchanged.
"As a player, we want to play on the biggest stages," said the Selangor star, who netted the winner in Malaysia’s 1-0 victory over Nepal at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Tuesday (Nov 18).
"Whatever decision that comes, we pray for the best so that the team can play in the Asian Cup. We just have to continue what we are doing right now."
Faisal admitted that any possibility of disqualification or having their campaign voided would be difficult to accept.
"If a disqualification or null-and-void possibility happens, obviously you would be frustrated and disappointed because we are in such great momentum, winning all our qualifying matches," he said.
"We have one more to close this qualification chapter and decide whether we get to the Asian Cup or not."
He added that the squad continues to stand behind the seven players affected by the sanction.
"Whatever that happens to our mates, we always support and pray the best for them. Whoever is in the current team has to do their best for the team. Whatever is happening, commitment has to be there."
Malaysia’s narrow win over Nepal extended their unbeaten run this year to eight matches — seven wins and one draw — while preserving their perfect record in the Asian Cup qualifiers.
Harimau Malaya remain firmly on top of Group F with 15 points from five matches, and now need only a draw against Vietnam on March 31 next year to secure their place at the 2027 Asian Cup.
However, their campaign may yet face complications depending on how the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) responds should Malaysia fail to overturn the FIFA suspension at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
