Head coach Peter Cklamovski has expressed confidence and determination ahead of Malaysia’s clash with Vietnam in Group F of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers, despite the challenging circumstances surrounding the campaign.
Speaking during the official pre-match press conference in Vietnam, the Malaysian camp emphasized preparation, professionalism, and national pride as key motivations heading into the encounter.
The Malaysian squad recently concluded a productive training camp in Thailand, with the coach praising the facilities and support provided during preparations.
“We’ve had a good training camp and trained well. A big thank you to BG for hosting us in Thailand. It helped us work on important details and continue progressing our game.”
While Malaysia’s qualification hopes have been affected by circumstances beyond their control, Cklamovski insisted the team’s mentality remains unchanged.
“We’re obviously disappointed and devastated with the outcome because something outside our control has impacted our chance to qualify. But we focus on what we can control—how we train, how we prepare and how we play.”
The Australian coach also praised the attitude shown by his players during a difficult period.
“In tough times you measure yourself as men and as a group. I’m very proud of the players and the staff. Their commitment has been fantastic.”
Malaysia face an additional challenge when they step onto Vietnamese soil, having not beaten their regional rivals away from home for more than a decade.
“Malaysia hasn’t beaten Vietnam away for over 12 years, so that’s something to chase. We approach this match with the mentality to win the next game no matter the circumstances.”
For Cklamovski, the focus is clear—deliver the best football of the campaign.
“We want to play the best football we’ve played in this entire campaign, and that’s the challenge in front of us.”
Vietnam is expected to field several key players who have returned to the squad, including striker Nguyen Xuan Son and defender Doan Van Hau.
Cklamovski acknowledged the quality of the opposition but stressed that Malaysia’s focus remains on their own performance.
“Vietnam have very good players and they’re a very strong team. But we concentrate on executing our own game plan and doing what we need to do to get the result.”
Credit Photo : FAM
