KUALA LUMPUR − The country’s experienced goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat has admitted that the squad needs to improve their performance to head far in the AFF Cup campaign this time around.
The 32-year-old, who is the only remaining player from the team that emerged 2010 AFF Cup winners, said while he was happy with the 3-1 win against Cambodia in the first Group B fixture on Monday, pointed out there were several weaknesses that need to be rectified.
“It was our first match after getting together and we didn’t have any warm-up action. There were obvious weaknesses, but we can improve from game to game.
“Every goalkeeper wants a ‘clean sheet’, but in the action against Cambodia, we let the ball in once. However, the important thing is that we managed to grab three points, and in the next match against Laos (today), I have to be more careful,” he said during a virtual press conference held yesterday.
Khairul − more affectionately known as ‘Apek’ − also explained the importance of communication on and off the field, especially in terms of increasing confidence and mentoring the younger players.
While being confident of a win over Laos, he warned the squad not to underestimate the ability of the opponents, especially with the presence of French-born striker Billy Ketkeophomphone, who plays for Ligue 2 side USL Dunkirk.
“Because we know of his quality from playing in the French League, so everyone has to be careful with this key player of Laos. Head coach Tan Cheng Hoe has also briefed us, showed us videos of Laos playing so what we have learned, we can apply on the field later (today).
“Of course, we want a victory to get the three points − that’s the main mission − above that, I want a clean sheet, then maybe some players want a goal or two,” he added.
After their match against Laos at 5.30pm, the Harimau Malaya will play against Vietnam on December 12 before rounding up their group stage against Indonesia on December 19. – Bernama, December 9, 2021
