PETALING JAYA: National interim coach Tan Cheng Hoe has accepted the challenge laid down by newly elected Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president Datuk Ab Ghani Hassan for Harimau Malaya to win the inaugural FIFA Asean Cup.
And he hopes to start the mission on the right foot by leading the team to a win against Bangladesh in their opening Group A match at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta.
Cheng Hoe said the players were fully aware of the president’s expectations.
“Yes, of course, we take it as a challenge. We are really focused on this first game.
‘‘As I’ve said before, in any competition the first match is always the toughest,” said Cheng Hoe.
“Our players are very, very excited to be part of this first FIFA Asean Cup. We hope to start with a good result against Bangladesh.”
Ghani said he believed it was entirely possible for Harimau Malaya to reach the final of the tournament.
“They are not playing for me, nor for FAM, but for the country.
‘‘This is the mindset they must instil,” said Ghani.
Meanwhile, Cheng Hoe confirmed all 23 named players were fit and available, despite three late changes to the original squad.
“We are very happy that we are all together. All the players are ready,” he said.
Defender and captain Dion Cools echoed his coach’s optimism.
“Preparation has gone well. It’s been a short turnaround with very few training sessions, but the team are ready and the players are fit.”
