KUALA LUMPUR — Cape Verde head coach Pedro Brito has confirmed that his squad have received insights into Malaysia’s national team setup, thanks to winger Alvin Fortes, who currently plays for Selangor FC in the Super League.
Brito revealed that Fortes, one of several Cape Verde players based overseas, shared information on Harimau Malaya’s playing style and strengths ahead of their Tier 1 international friendly at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras tomorrow.
“We are happy to have players who are currently playing in Malaysia. Of course, he (Fortes) shared some information about football and the Malaysian national team,” said Brito at the pre-match press conference today, Bernama reported.
“However, our focus remains on our own preparation for tomorrow’s match and also the upcoming matches.”
Malaysia, ranked 131st in the world, will face world No. 72 Cape Verde twice — first on May 29 in front of fans in Cheras, and again in a closed-door friendly at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on June 3.
Brito acknowledged that despite their superior ranking, Cape Verde were not expecting an easy ride, noting that the matches would offer crucial international exposure as part of their build-up for the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
“The ranking is not a guarantee of easy matches. Our focus is on managing the challenges that lie ahead,” he said. “As a small country, it is important for us to get a variety of matches to gain international experience.”
The Harimau Malaya camp, meanwhile, have been urged to stay focused on the Cape Verde tests before turning their attention to the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifier against Vietnam on June 10.
Malaysia head coach Peter Cklamovski said he would field his strongest XI tomorrow and stressed that his side must treat Cape Verde with full respect.
“Football is a unique game and we have to respect every opponent,” said Cklamovski. “These matches are an important part of our preparation. Cape Verde and Vietnam are very similar in terms of physicality, strength, speed and their direct style of play.
“Playing against a strong team like this will help us develop as a team.”
He added that Malaysia must adopt a strong mentality regardless of their opponent and make the most of the opportunity to test themselves at international level. — May 28, 2025