Malaysia interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe expressed considerable satisfaction following his side’s opening FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 victory over Bangladesh, while immediately turning his attention toward the daunting challenge of facing tournament hosts Indonesia, as he addressed media at the post-match press conference in Jakarta.
Opening his remarks with praise for his players, Cheng Hoe acknowledged the unique challenges presented by the unusual kickoff time and the pressure of a tournament opener. “First of all, I would like to congratulate our players for the first win against Bangladesh. We know it’s not going to be an easy game—it’s a tough match. We were playing at four o’clock in the afternoon. Definitely, as a coach, I’m very pleased with the result,” he stated.
The tactician was candid about the ongoing nature of his squad-building project, emphasizing that team chemistry remains a work in progress under his stewardship. “We are in the process of building the team, to get together, to get playing as a team. Good understanding is not easy, but definitely, we have to be pleased with the result,” he added, striking a balanced tone between satisfaction and measured realism.
When pressed on his overall assessment of the team’s performance, Cheng Hoe acknowledged specific tactical areas requiring refinement, particularly highlighting vulnerabilities in defensive transitions that will need addressing before facing stronger opposition. “As a coach, you are satisfied with the result. Of course, there are certain areas that need improvement, especially the transition—sometimes we lose the ball too easily,” he explained candidly.
Despite these concerns, the head coach expressed genuine pleasure with his side’s overall approach and attacking output. “As a coach, I’m very happy again with the way we are playing, keeping the ball, scoring the goals.”
Cheng Hoe reserved particular commendation for newly naturalized forward Bergson da Silva, recognizing the psychological significance of scoring on debut for the Brazilian-born player’s development and confidence within the squad. “We have to congratulate Bergson. The first time he came into the team, he scored a goal. It’s a good motivation, it’s a good confidence for him. Hopefully the team can keep progressing well against Indonesia.”
With celebrations brief, Cheng Hoe immediately acknowledged the magnitude of Malaysia’s upcoming assignment against tournament hosts Indonesia at the iconic Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, recognizing both the psychological boost provided by the opening win and the significant step up in quality awaiting his side. “The first step is the good thing that we won this afternoon’s game. It’s a good start for us—it gives us confidence and good momentum. Playing against Indonesia, especially playing in Gelora Bung Karno, it’s going to be a tough game, a tough match-up.”
Outlining his preparation strategy for the pivotal encounter, Cheng Hoe emphasized a dual focus on player welfare and tactical analysis during the short turnaround period. “We need to focus on these two days of recovery. We need to analyse how the game is against Bangladesh, at the same time we need to analyse the game against Indonesia. So definitely, we coaching staff, the players, we are ready to compete with Indonesia. We are ready for the next game.”
Elaborating further on his recovery protocols, the interim boss revealed a methodical approach centered on assessing player fitness before finalizing selection decisions. “First of all, we have two days in between for recovery. My purpose is to get my players ready for a good recovery. At the same time, I need our medical team to check the players’ condition, who is available, who is not available.”
Cheng Hoe concluded by highlighting the transformative impact of Malaysia’s newly naturalized players—Bergson, Manuel Hidalgo, and Brad Tapp—on both competitive depth and squad morale, describing a harmonious team environment ahead of the demanding fixture against Indonesia. “With Bergson, Hidalgo and Bratap, they really give us the extra energy, extra value in the team, extra confidence. Hopefully these three players keep on performing well, keep on sharing with the team, bonding well.”
The interim coach painted a picture of unity that he believes will prove crucial in the tests ahead. “As I said before, we are like one family. The atmosphere in the team is really good at the moment. We have to keep on believing in ourselves. In terms of the process of togetherness, we need everyone to be wholeheartedly committed to the next game.”
Credit Photo : FAM
