Nepal captain Kiran Chemjong insists Malaysia remain a formidable opponent even without their seven suspended heritage players as both teams prepare for tomorrow’s AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers at Bukit Jalil National Stadium, Kuala Lumpur.
Malaysia will be without Gabriel Palmero, Facundo Garces, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, Joao Figueiredo, Jon Irazabal and Hector Hevel—each serving a 12-month ban issued by FIFA over documentation irregularities. Despite the setback, Limbu believes the Harimau Malaya squad still carries significant quality.
The veteran goalkeeper warned that Malaysia’s ranking and depth mean Nepal cannot afford to rely on perceived weaknesses.
“Malaysia have many good local players. They are strong and they play in a quality league here,” Limbu said.
“Even without their heritage players, we must respect them and be fully prepared.”
Limbu also reflected on Nepal’s 0–2 defeat to Malaysia in March, admitting that individual errors cost them dearly.
“We fought well, but our mistakes punished us. We cannot repeat the same errors.”
Nepal, who are listed as the “home team” despite playing at the National Stadium due to logistical issues, are desperate to break their run of four straight defeats and climb off the bottom of Group F.
Head coach Hari Khadka admitted that playing their designated home fixture away from Nepal is far from ideal.
“If we were playing in Nepal, it would be a clear advantage. But due to certain circumstances, we must play here, and it will be different,” he said.
With Malaysia still ranked 118th in the world and carrying greater depth and experience, Nepal face a stern challenge as they chase their first points of the qualifying campaign.
The match kicks off tomorrow night with Harimau Malaya aiming to consolidate their position at the top of Group F, while Nepal fight to keep their hopes alive.
Credit Photo : ANFA
