Merdeka Tournament 2008: Malaysia cautious on Vietnam tactics

Friday, 24 October 08, 08:41 AM · Comments(2)

Although Malaysia blazed into the Merdeka Cup final tomorrow without conceding a goal and scoring 18 goals, their arch rival Vietnam will not be an easy meat.

Vietnam fought back from two goals down to draw level against Sierra Leone before clinching the semi-final match 3-2 on penalties.

National coach B. Sathiananthan said the players were inspired to win the coveted trophy as a present for Football Association of Malaysia president Sultan Ahmad Shah who celebrated his 78th birthday today.

"Vietnam are basically under 21 team who have a remarkable fight back spirit and we should not be off guard," said Sathiananthan, adding that the home ground advantage would give Malaysia an edge.

He said Malaysia were banking stalwarts like Mohd Shukor Adan, Hairuddin Omar, Norhafiz Zamani Misbah and Indra Putra Mahayuddin to set pace for junior players.

"Skipper Shukor, who commands the respects of his team mates, would orchestrate the moves from the centre as usual," said Sathiananthan.

Meanwhile, Shukor, who is regarded as second coach by Sathiananthan, said he was upbeat about the final after missing the previous Merdeka Cup final due to injuries.

The final between Malaysia and Vietnam will be held at the National Stadium, Bukit Jalil at 8.45pm tomorrow.

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