KUALA LUMPUR: This comes from the back. Defender Ubaidullah Shamsul said Malaysia need to be sharper upfront at the Under-23 Asian Cup in Doha from April 15-May 5.
The goals were paltry in the Young Tigers’ warm-up matches.
Malaysia won 2-1 and drew 1-1 against India in Kuala Lumpur last month.
This was followed by a 2-1 defeat against China on April 4 and a 1-0 loss to Qatar on April 7.
Ubaidullah said the Malaysian team need to be sharper, and also cut down on mistakes.
“After four friendly matches, I feel that the team cohesion among players have improved.
“We just need to sharpen our attack and reduce carelessness on the pitch.
“In our last two friendly matches, we conceded three goals through penalties.”
The Malaysian team, who have been training in Qatar for the last 11 days, celebrated Hari Raya Aidilfitri in Doha yesterday.
“The players are ready to sacrifice for the country, and we are also used to celebrating Hari Raya with the team abroad. The Under-23 championship has coincided with the festive season for the last three years.”
Malaysia will begin their Under-23 Asian Cup against Uzbekistan on April 17, followed by Vietnam (April 20) and Kuwait (April 23).
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