Selangor winger Ahmad Hazwan Bakri is all pumped up for goals ahead of Malayan Tigers’ match against United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the Group A qualifying rounds of World Cup 2018/Asian Cup 2019.
Despite knowing the fact that they enter the match as underdogs, Hazwan is optimistic that his side can claim a surprise victory.
“To me every player has the ability to score goals, provided he takes his chances. Nothing is impossible in football, what’s important is that we follow the strategy of coach Dollah Salleh.”
“It’s true that I’m ready to provide more goals for the national team. I failed to take my chances during the previous game (against Bangladesh), but now I’m more prepared than ever,” he told Utusan when contacted from Abu Dhabi.
UAE currently occupy the 70th spot in world rankings, while the Malayan Tigers are at 168th place.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Mohd Khairul Fahmi Che Mat has urged his teammates, especially in defence, to restrict spaces for the Omar brothers if they play in the match today.
“Playing at the opponent’s place is no doubt pressuring, in addition to their skilful players such as Omar and his brothers. He is definitely one of the best play makers around, so we have to be prepared.”
“Physically, we would not be expecting problems because we do have tall, strong defenders who can deal with UAE players. But tactical wise, we have to concentrate on that.”
“We could not afford to lose, at least a point should be sufficient to improve our standings in the group.”
Other posts by Tharshanan Manoharan
