Ex-Malaysian international Stanley Bernard Samuel claims that Nazmi Faiz’s shambolic action during their clash against Timor Leste last week warrants a severe punishment, labeling the incident as a complete disgrace.
The Malaysian U-23 midfielder was sent off midway through the first half, after spitting in the direction of a Timor Leste player. That left Malaysia with only 10 men for the rest of the game, forcing them to huff and puff their way to a close 1-0 win on the day.
His sending off means that Nazmi will be ineligible for Malaysia’s match against Vietnam and Thailand, though Stanley thinks that the former Beira-Mar midfielder needs to be handed a severe punishment for his act.
“It was absolutely disgraceful,” he told FourthOfficial.com
“As a role model to young kids out there – having won the SEA Games gold in 2011 – Nazmi should be conducting himself in a matured manner. He’s considered a senior member of the current squad.
“He should be receiving a lengthy ban. Suarez received a lengthy ban for biting and for me, it’s no different to spitting as well. Absolutely unacceptable,” Stanley added.
Having secured three points in their first game, Malaysia will be going up against Vietnam, a side that is considered massive favourites to triumph in the competition, tonight.
While Stanley was quick to acknowledge the strength within the Vietnamese set-up, he remains confident that Malaysia can pull off a victory from this one, provided they remain disciplined in executing Datuk Ong Kim Swee’s tactics.
“Vietnam are definitely favourites, having done well in the AFF Suzuki Cup with a young squad. You can expect them to be a formidable side tonight.
“They were off to a flying start on the opening day and pace has been their key weapon. They are extremely fit as well; something that Datuk Ong Kim Swee will certainly be looking into.
“Expect him to adopt a versatile approach when it comes to defending. Perhaps playing a high line of defence early on in the game, before dropping back a little bit to allow the Vietnamese players time and space on the ball, without allowing them the opportunity of penetration.
“If Malaysia can remain disciplined for 90 minutes and approach the game with a positive attitude, I believe they should be able to nick a win. But if they don’t, then Vietnam will be favourites for three points.”
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