KUALA LUMPUR – National hockey team head coach A. Arul Selvaraj believes the key for overpowering New Zealand in their final group stage match of the 2023 Hockey World Cup is the trust the team has in themselves.
After losing their first match to powerhouse Netherlands 4-0 but coming from behind to win 3-2 against Chile, Malaysia’s fate in the tournament now lies against New Zealand today in their final Group C match.
Speaking to the media, Arul said New Zealand will try to be aggressive against the Speedy Tigers, but he believes the team has what it takes to make it past their opponents.
“Our training sessions have been more tactical and disciplined.
“I think New Zealand will be aggressive and will try to pressure us. But we need to trust in ourselves and show that we can deal with the pressure and play it to our strength and advantage,” he said.
He added that he wants to see his men showcase their trust in both them and their teammates.
“That is one thing that I want to see. I think the best formula is to believe in ourselves, especially in our mental and physical capabilities.
“We have been focusing more on our penalty corner attacks as we will try to press more to score from those opportunities,” he added.
Meanwhile, Arul said Muhammad Sharil Saabah’s injury during the match against Chile has left the forward unfit for the match tomorrow.
“We are bringing in Shahmie Irfan Suhaimi, because we believe he has the technical abilities going forward.
“He is also a player that has high confidence. But most importantly, we want him to enjoy the moment on the field,” Arul said.
Shahmie, who plays for Maybank, scored two goals for the national U-21 squad during the Sultan of Johor Cup last year.
One goal came during the 2-2 draw against Japan where he scored the team’s second goal, and also the second goal for Malaysia against Great Britain, in which they lost 4-2.
Based on the tournament format, group winners will advance to the quarterfinals, while the second and third-placed teams will play a cross-over match against the teams of Group D (England, India, Spain, Wales) in the knockout round for a slot in the quarterfinals.
Malaysia will take on New Zealand today at 3.30pm (Malaysian Time). – The Vibes, January 19, 2023
