Faisal Halim Injury Doubt Malaysia before Singapore Clash

Malaysia head coach Tan Cheng Hoe has confirmed doubt over the availability of forward Faisal Halim ahead of Harimau Malaya's decisive FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 finale against Singapore, revealing that the winger may have missed training as the squad manages the aftermath of their physically demanding draw with Indonesia.

Speaking to media in Bandung, Cheng Hoe explained that Faisal's participation in training had become uncertain following the intense encounter with tournament hosts Indonesia. "We will see how the players' condition is, in terms of fatigue and tendencies. And it's been reported that Faisal Halim may not be able to train today," the head coach said. "This is because he picked up a knock during the match against Indonesia."

Rather than offering a definitive prognosis, Cheng Hoe made clear the decision on Faisal's fitness rests with Malaysia's medical staff, with the rest of the squad otherwise reporting no fitness concerns. "We are waiting for a report from the medical officer to confirm whether Faisal Halim will be available or not," he explained. "The rest of the squad looks okay."

Pressed further on the severity of the issue, Cheng Hoe was careful not to speculate prematurely on the extent of the injury, instead pointing to a short window before greater certainty emerges ahead of kickoff. "We're not yet certain 100% whether he'll be available or not for the match," he said. "But within one to two days, we'll know the extent of Faisal Halim's injury."

The uncertainty surrounding Faisal's fitness carries significant weight given his role as one of Malaysia's most influential attacking outlets throughout the tournament, having featured prominently alongside Bergson da Silva and Arif Aiman Hanapi in Harimau Malaya's front three during the group stage. Any potential absence would force Cheng Hoe into a reshuffle of his attacking options just as Malaysia prepares for arguably its most significant fixture of the campaign—a Causeway Derby against Singapore that could determine progression to the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 final.

Credit Photo : FAM