KUALA LUMPUR – The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM)’s aspiration to see the Malaysian football team in the world’s premier sporting event has sparked discussions within the football fraternity.
In an interview with Scoop, former defender Datuk Santokh Singh, who played a significant role in Malaysia’s qualification for the 1980 Moscow Olympics, expressed scepticism about FAM’s ambitious goal for the under-23 team.
“I don’t believe there has been proper planning by FAM for this team to qualify for the Olympics, and this target is likely to create unnecessary pressure for the players and coaches.
“With the current performance of the team struggling in recent competitions, it seems unlikely they can perform well in the qualifiers.
“Achieving a top-three spot to qualify for the Olympics appears impossible,” said Santokh.
Santokh also emphasised that FAM needs to provide the Harimau Muda players with extensive tournament exposure if they hope to at least qualify for the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.
“I’m pleased that FAM is serious about the national team participating in the Olympics, but this goal is unattainable without sending the players to various tournaments.
“For instance, in the recently concluded Kings Cup and Merdeka tournament, FAM could have opted to send the Harimau Muda team instead of the senior team for exposure.
“If possible, FAM should arrange friendlies against top teams such as China, India, and Uzbekistan. This will give our Harimau Muda team the experience of playing against formidable opponents, better preparing them to secure a slot in the 2028 Olympics,” added Santokh.
Meanwhile, former Kedah FC coach Azraai Khor Abdullah stated that Olympic qualification is feasible but stressed the importance of having quality players in the team.
“Nothing is impossible, but FAM should scout and include more players who can make a difference on the field and elevate the overall team performance.
“In my opinion, the team hasn’t been playing poorly. They possess rhythm and synergy, and it’s crucial to recognise that they qualified for next year’s AFC U-23 Asian Cup.
“If they can make it to the Asian Cup, they can also qualify for the Olympics. However, FAM needs to ensure that the team is surrounded by leaders.
“Harimau Muda requires players with leadership qualities – individuals who can inspire teammates and make strategic decisions on the pitch. Addressing this issue will improve their chances of making it to the Olympics,” said Azraai.
The 2024 AFC U-23 Asian Cup, scheduled to take place in Qatar from April 15 to May 3 next year, will serve as a qualifier for Harimau Muda in the Paris Olympics.
The top three teams in the tournament gain direct entry to Paris, while the fourth-placed team will engage in a playoff against a country from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The winner of the playoff will secure qualification for the Olympics. – November 22, 2023