KUALA LUMPUR – Ramadan has not stopped Harimau Malaya fans from flocking to Bukit Jalil National Stadium, showing their undying support for the national team in the 2026 World Cup/2027 Asian Cup qualifying game against Oman tonight.
Despite the fasting month, supporters have come from as far as Johor to cheer on their beloved team, their passion undiminished.
Selangor resident Mohd Fathi Mat Hassan epitomises this dedication, bringing his children and their cousins to witness the game during the holy month for Muslims.
“I want to expose the children to a Harimau Malaya game and give them the experience of a home game at the National Stadium,” said the 39-year-old.
“This game holds special significance for us being in Ramadan.
“I hope our players can perform even though they are fasting, if you see the game in Muscat we were competitive even when at the end we lost 2-0 and I hope for a 1-0 or 2-1 win tonight.”
The late 10pm kick-off suits friends Mark Denyel and Tan Wei Gene perfectly, allowing them the ideal time to get ready and head to the stadium from Petaling Jaya after work.
“It’s no problem, demi lencana di dada! (for the sake of the badge on the chest),” exclaimed 28-year-old Wei Gene, embodying his commitment.
Meanwhile, 32-year-old Mark is banking on a miraculous comeback, praying for the national squad “for a 4-1 result to overturn the previous 2-0 defeat in Oman.”
Even Frenchman Wissam Amarehoun has been drawn to tonight’s match after hearing about it through colleagues, deciding to accompany them to see how the beautiful game is played in this part of the world.
“I like football, I play a little in Paris. I want to see the level compared to France,” shared the 23-year-old intern.
“The level is high at home but I hear the standard in Malaysia is also very good, so I’m curious to witness it firsthand.
“With Malaysia striving for redemption after the loss in Oman, I anticipate a competitive match, predicting a 2-0 victory for Malaysia.”
Malaysia will be aiming for at least a draw against the Gulf nation to reignite their chance to advance to the next qualifying round.
Harimau Malaya find themselves tied with Oman and Kyrgyzstan in Group D, each with six points. – March 26, 2024