KUALA LUMPUR – Harimau Malaya’s failure to progress to the semi-finals of the Asean Cup is a result of their own shortcomings, according to former international and football pundit Razman Roslan.
Malaysia finished third in Group A yesterday after a goalless draw against arch-rivals Singapore at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
The result left the team with just five points from their group campaign, consisting of one win (against Timor Leste), two draws (Cambodia and Singapore), and one defeat to defending champions Thailand.
Speaking to Scoop, Razman, a member of Malaysia’s 2010 AFF Cup-winning team, said Malaysia lacked the finishing touch in the crucial match against Singapore.
“It was a great and entertaining match, I won’t deny that. Finishing was poor, but the difference was marginal at times,” said the former Selangor captain.
“The boys played better in the second half, after composing themselves. They knew one goal was all they needed to make the semis. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. I thought we were simply unlucky not to take all three points.”
However, Razman was more critical of Malaysia’s overall campaign, highlighting the early setbacks that set the tone for their exit.
“This year’s campaign was tough on the team due to several factors. It wasn’t the full squad, with injuries and clubs not releasing players. Some would even call this our second or third-best team, and I don’t blame them,” he said.
“But if we’re being honest, the failure to make the semi-finals is entirely on the team. While I commend their effort in the last two matches, the draw against Cambodia in the opening game cost us everything.”
Malaysia’s campaign was led by outgoing interim coach Pau Marti Vicente, who managed a depleted squad amid challenging circumstances.
The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) recently announced Australian Peter Cklamovski as the new Harimau Malaya head coach, with former Everton star Tim Cahill expected to join as technical advisor.
With these new appointments, it remains to be seen whether Malaysian football can return to its glory days. Razman, like many fans, will be wishing for better days to come. — December 21, 2024