PETALING JAYA: National striker Paulo Josue believes the upcoming FIFA Asean Cup offers Malaysia national football team their best chance to finally end a long wait for silverware.
The regional tournament, scheduled during the Sept 21-Oct 6 international window, is seen by the veteran forward as an ideal platform for Malaysia to mount a serious title challenge against familiar South-East Asian rivals.
"I think it’s a great tournament and a great chance for Malaysia to lift a trophy," said Josue after the AllStar Legends press conference yesterday.
"We know we can compete against the teams in South-East Asia quite well, we’ve already proved it before.
"Of course there are struggles a little here and there, but I definitely think the team can do something special for the country."
Harimau Malaya last tasted silverware when they lifted the AFF Cup trophy in 2010.
Josue also feels local supporters have been longing for high-stakes matches and memorable finals involving the national team.
"I think Malaysian fans miss these kinds of games – finals and opportunities to win trophies. This tournament gives the players a chance to fight for something meaningful for the country," he said.
