Tan Cheng Hoe before Vietnam clash "This is second opportunity for us"

Malaysia head coach Tan Cheng Hoe addressed media ahead of Harimau Malaya's FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 third-place match against Vietnam, striking a note of respect for a dangerous opponent while expressing quiet confidence in his squad's ability to close out the tournament on a high.

Opening his remarks, Cheng Hoe framed Wednesday's fixture as a genuine opportunity for his squad to finish the campaign with something to show for their efforts. "Tomorrow is the play-off, third placing for this FIFA Asian Cup. Of course, as a coach, as a team, we want to achieve something, we want to do well, we want to continue in a positive way," he said.

The head coach was quick to acknowledge the quality of the opposition standing between Malaysia and a podium finish. "We have to respect Vietnam. We know Vietnam is coming with a strong team, they have been one of the best in South Asia. Of course, tomorrow's game is another different tournament, different ball game. Hopefully, we are prepared, we are in a good mood and in a good atmosphere, in a good spirit to play against Vietnam."

Asked about the physical condition of his players following a punishing run of fixtures, Cheng Hoe acknowledged that recovery remains an ongoing process heading into the final match of the tournament. "We are still in a recovery period for the players after playing three tough matches. We need a good recovery preparation, at the same time, the players need to be in a good momentum, a good focus for tomorrow's game."

Reflecting on Vietnam's own tournament journey, Cheng Hoe noted the shared disappointment of missing out on the final, while framing the playoff as a valuable opportunity for his own squad. "As we know that Vietnam, the way they are playing, although they didn't qualify for the final, of course, we are also disappointed that they didn't qualify for the final. This is the opportunity, the second opportunity for us to get a good result playing against Vietnam."

Pressed on whether Vietnam's recent results — a defeat to Thailand followed by conceding two goals against Pakistan — offered Malaysia grounds for optimism, Cheng Hoe confirmed his belief that his side could exploit the opportunities on offer. "As a coach, we feel confident, we feel that the team is playing well, our team is playing well," he said.

The head coach was careful not to underestimate Vietnam's attacking threat despite those results, highlighting the pace that has defined their play throughout the tournament. "We know that the transition of the way of Vietnam players is very fast, play with speed. We also have a quality player, we also have players that can control the game. We have to make use of the chances and opportunities in front of goal."

Closing his remarks, Cheng Hoe emphasized that improved efficiency in front of goal was a standard his side needed to maintain regardless of opponent. "Of course, we have to be very clinical, not only playing against Vietnam, other teams also, we have to continue the way we are playing."

Credit Photo : FAM