Malaysia’s SEA Games football campaign enters a critical phase as head coach Nafuzi Zain grapples with emotional setbacks, injury blows, and unpredictable squad availability — just 48 hours before a do-or-die clash against powerhouse Vietnam.
The biggest shock came early this morning when forward Haqimi Azim received news of his father’s passing, forcing him to fly back to Kuala Lumpur immediately. The team extended heartfelt condolences, but Nafuzi admits the situation leaves Malaysia walking a tightrope.
“We offer our deepest condolences to Hakimi. I told him to settle everything at home first. We need him for the Vietnam match, but his return is still uncertain,” Nafuzi said.
Hakimi’s availability will only be known once he settles family matters, adding another layer of uncertainty to Malaysia’s preparation.
While Hakimi’s situation weighs heavily on the squad, Malaysia also confirmed the loss of Haziq Kutty, who has been ruled out of the entire SEA Games due to injury.
But there was one bright spark — the return of Aliff Izwan and Aiman Yusof, the latter recovering after missing the Laos match through illness. Still, Nafuzi admits the squad remains thin.
“Some players return, some are unavailable. Our team is still incomplete. But we accept this challenge and continue to focus on Vietnam,” he stressed.
Selangor FC also stepped in at the last minute to provide additional support, with Nafuzi thanking P. Maniam, Nidzam Jamil, and Badrul Afzan for their cooperation.
When asked about reinforcing the squad with Fergus Tierny, Nafuzi shut the door immediately.
“Fergus was never released. We didn’t place any hope on him. We focus only on the players who are here,” he said.
Vietnam enter the match as heavy favourites, crowned Merlion Cup champions and fresh off a dominant performance against Laos. Their star striker Nguyen Quoc Viet, who scored a brace and already features for the senior national team, is Malaysia’s main threat.
“He’s a top-quality player with exceptional ability. We must be fully focused defensively,” Nafuzi warned.
Malaysia only need a draw to qualify for the semi-finals — but Nafuzi insists there will be no parking the bus.
“We play to win. But at the very least, we must not lose. Preparation for Vietnam is extremely detailed,” he shared.
With squad volatility, emotional turbulence, and tactical reshuffling, this SEA Games campaign looks like one of the most chaotic of Nafuzi’s coaching journey. But the 46-year-old coach remains calm.
“Every period has different challenges. This is part of my growth as a coach. We cannot complain — we must continue,” he said with a smile, even joking that his “playbook isn’t getting thicker,” just more creative.
Malaysia may tweak their style of play, with several positional adjustments expected due to player shortage. Nafuzi hinted at fresh faces stepping up.
Malaysia have two days left to solve their selection puzzles and recalibrate their tactical approach before facing a well-oiled Vietnam side.
Despite the chaos, Nafuzi remains clear:
“We are not qualified yet. Forget the win against Laos. Our real challenge is Vietnam.”
Credit Photo : FAM
