THE team that work together stay together.
This famous quote that sparks motivation is what drives the Speedy Tigers as they prepare for the World Cup’s ninth-16th classification match against South Africa tomorrow at the Birsa Munda Stadium in Rourkela.
And their chief tormentors from the flanks – Najib Abu Hassan (pic) and Norsyafiq Sumantri – stand by the adage.
“We are staying together despite the hard luck. We have to fight for a better place. We will give our 100% to get the best ranking,” said Najib who’s playing in his first World Cup.
“In my case, I must maintain my effort and show my capabilities as a flanker. Also, there has to be total commitment against South Africa. Right now, we need to stay positive and not entertain thoughts of splitting or slipping.
“Even after the defeat against Spain, we all got together and spoke on what we should do to bounce back. It’s the unity that has kept us strong in the tournament.”
Najib, 27, said the heartbreaking crossover defeat against Spain had been put to rest, and the players are eager to bounce back by finishing ninth.
Najib said coach A. Arulselvaraj’s approach of having a heart-to-heart talk with every player after the defeat was classy as the players needed some reinvigorating for the rest of the games.
“He told me I had every right to feel disappointed, but I should not hold on to it for too long. He just said, be proud of the hard work you have done all these weeks and years.
“Remember the pain and sacrifice you went through to be at this stage. We have to fight back and leave India with lots of pride and hope.
“That touch was important because we needed to lift our morale.”
Against South Africa, Najib just wants his teammates to do their best.
“All the teams here give their best, so we shouldn’t underestimate South Africa. They have given some tough fights in this tournament. We will prepare our tactics thoroughly and execute them. As for my role, I guarantee my 100%.
“I want to help the team based on the situations we are in during the game like getting penalty corners, scoring goals and assisting. Our target is to win, that’s it!”
On paper, Malaysia are ranked 10th in the world and South Africa 15th.
In the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2022 campaign in November, the Speedy Tigers, who ended their 39-year wait by winning the title for the first time, trounced the Africans 7-2 in a group match.
