Malaysia head coach Tan Cheng Hoe praised his players for building momentum after Harimau Malaya secured a convincing 4-0 victory over Laos, insisting the team is growing stronger with every match as they prepare for a crucial ASEAN Hyundai Cup™ 2026 Group B showdown against Thailand.
The victory extended Malaysia’s perfect start to the tournament with two wins from two matches, lifting them to six points and putting them in a commanding position ahead of Saturday’s blockbuster clash at Bangkok’s Rajamangala Stadium.
Speaking after the match, Cheng Hoe expressed his satisfaction with both the result and the team’s continued progress.
“As a coach, I’m very pleased with the result. We continue to build momentum and deepen our understanding within the team. These three points give us even more motivation heading into the next game against Thailand.”
Despite the comprehensive scoreline, the Malaysian coach stressed there is still significant work to be done before facing one of Southeast Asia’s strongest sides.
“We still have a lot of homework to do. We have only two days to prepare ourselves, and we must continue improving if we want to be ready for Thailand.”
Malaysia dominated possession but struggled to break down Laos during the opening period before captain Paulo Josue finally broke the deadlock just before halftime.
According to Cheng Hoe, that opening goal completely changed the rhythm of the contest.
“The first half was difficult because Laos defended very compactly and we couldn’t penetrate their defensive block. Paulo’s goal gave the team confidence, and in the second half we played much better. Once the confidence is there, the goals and our football begin to flow.”
He believes teamwork will be the key factor when Malaysia travel to Bangkok.
“Thailand have a very good squad and they will be playing at home. We have to be fully prepared because teamwork will be extremely important in that match.”
One of Malaysia’s standout performers was Gunalan Pavithran, who recovered from a nervous start to provide two assists and earn the Man of the Match award.
Cheng Hoe believes the young winger has enormous potential but stressed that confidence remains crucial to his development.
“Pavithran is a player with great potential for the future. As coaches, we have to guide him, encourage him and give him confidence to play without fear.”
“He followed every instruction we gave him and delivered an excellent performance. Match after match, you can see him improving. The important thing is that he believes in himself.”
The coach also highlighted the importance of senior players mentoring the younger generation within the squad.
Pavithran admitted he initially struggled under pressure but said the encouragement from his teammates and coaching staff helped him settle into the game.
“My confidence came from my teammates. The experienced players kept supporting me, and the coach continued giving me confidence during halftime. That support helped me improve in the second half.”
Looking ahead, the youngster has only one objective.
“Our target is to reach the semi-finals. First, we go to Thailand and fight for another three points. We will give everything.”
He also acknowledged how valuable the opportunity to represent Malaysia has been.
“It’s difficult for young players to earn this opportunity. When the coach gives you minutes, you have to show that you deserve to be here.”
Cheng Hoe admitted balancing a squad featuring experienced internationals alongside several uncapped youngsters has been one of his biggest challenges.
He emphasised that maintaining a positive team environment is just as important as tactical preparation.
“The atmosphere inside the squad is very important because it helps build confidence and motivation.”
The coach also revealed that player recovery will be closely monitored before facing Thailand, with Malaysia playing three matches within a week.
“Fitness, injuries and recovery will be crucial. We have to assess every player carefully before the next match.”
Cheng Hoe also praised Sergio Aguero, who impressed in an unfamiliar holding midfield role.
Although naturally deployed elsewhere, Aguero embraced the tactical adjustment without hesitation.
“When I asked Sergio to play as a number six, he immediately said he could do it. That mentality is exactly what young players should learn from experienced professionals.”
“When the coach needs you in a different position, you must be ready. That is what representing the national team is all about.”
With six points already secured, Malaysia now travel to Bangkok full of confidence for what could be the decisive match in Group B.
While Harimau Malaya have made an excellent start to their ASEAN Hyundai Cup™ campaign, Cheng Hoe insists the squad must continue improving if they hope to overcome regional giants Thailand and strengthen their push towards the knockout stage.
Credit Photo : FAM
