SHAH ALAM, Selangor: Interim Harimau Malaya head coach, Tan Cheng Hoe, has acknowledged that the national team’s preparations for the Hyundai ASEAN Cup 2026 have been slightly affected after several players in his plans were not released by their clubs to join the squad.
However, he remained confident that the selected players, despite many being youngsters and new faces, would be able to develop a good understanding before the tournament begins on July 24.
“Of course, with this situation, I see it as a challenge because we know the AFF competition is usually held outside the FIFA calendar, which inevitably affects the team’s preparations.
“I would like to thank the clubs that released their players. Although some clubs were unable to do so, I remain positive about the squad we have now,” he told reporters during the national team’s centralised training camp here on Wednesday.
Cheng Hoe said the short preparation period required every player to adapt quickly and understand the style of play and tactical approach that would be implemented throughout the campaign.
Asked about his personal target, Cheng Hoe said he preferred to take a realistic approach by focusing on one match at a time.
“We cannot rush things. We will monitor every match, especially the players’ fitness levels, to avoid any serious injuries,” he said.
Harimau Malaya will open their Group B campaign against Myanmar at Thuwunna Stadium on July 25 before taking on Laos at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras (July 28), Thailand at Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok (August 1), and the Philippines in Cheras (August 8).
The top two teams from each group will advance to the two-legged semi-finals in mid-August, with the finals scheduled for August 22 and 26. – BERNAMA
