PETALING JAYA: National winger Faisal Halim admitted that missing out on qualification for the 2027 Asian Cup will be a huge blow but insists the 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.
“Whatever decision 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 will 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 game to close this qualification chapter and decide whether we get to the Asian Cup or not.
“As for the game against Nepal, I am just grateful. The win is for the team and the people of Malaysia.”
He added that the squad continue to stand behind the seven players affected by the sanction.
“Whatever happened to our mates, we always support and pray for 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.
The 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) respond should Malaysia fail to overturn the FIFA suspension at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Even fans expressed their dissatisfaction during the match with the Ultras Malaya unfurling banners during the match which read – “Jangan gadaikan maruah negara, maruah ini bukan untuk digadai. Selesaikan segera.” (Don’t pawn the nation’s dignity; this dignity is not meant to be traded away. Settle this immediately.)
They went on to shout the name of Harimau Malaya chief executive officer (CEO) Rob Friend and FAM, with some lines laced with profanities. Security personnel monitored the section closely but no major incidents were reported as the supporters continued their vocal protest.
