PETALING JAYA: Dion Cools is determined to inspire Malaysia to a morale-boosting victory over Vietnam although their Asian Cup qualification hopes has already extinguished.
The rightback captain, who plays for Japanese top-flight side Cerezo Osaka, has been quietly doing his homework alongside the coaching staff as Harimau Malaya prepare for their final Group F qualifier at the Nam Dinh Stadium today.
Cools said the squad’s focus had not wavered despite recent setbacks and the odds against them.
“Despite whatever has happened, the players are motivated. The camp (in Bangkok) was very good, we trained well and are ready for the game,” said the 29-year-old Cools, who was born in Kuching to a Belgian father and Malaysian mother.
“With my playing time and experience in one of the best leagues in Asia, I want to bring that exposure and help Malaysia get a win against Vietnam.
“I respect Vietnam. We’ve done a lot of work, and personally, I’ve analysed their style of play. They have quality, but we know what we need to do.”
Cools is hopeful of making an impact in attack, having previously scored against Vietnam in last year’s 4-0 win over the Golden Dragons.
“Of course, I want to score again. I’m confident, but we want to win as a team,” said Cools, who has earned 38 caps and scored six goals for Malaysia.
The previous win has been overturned as defeat by the Asian Football Confederation after Malaysia had used seven mixed-heritage players, who has used doctored documents.
Meanwhile, Harimau Malaya’s coach Peter Cklamovski acknowledged Vietnam’s quality while stressing Malaysia’s focus on execution.
“They are a strong side with good players. We respect them, but our focus is on what we need to do to get the result.”
He added that players like midfielder Endrick dos Santos could play a key role, particularly with his experience in Vietnamese conditions.
“Endrick is an important player for us — both as a footballer and as a person. His experience in Vietnam helps with the finer details in our preparation. We leave no stone unturned. Ultimately, our focus is on ourselves and being at our best. We have a full squad ready to give everything for the victory.”
Though their qualification dream has faded, Malaysia now have a chance to prove that their spirit remains unshaken.
