Bandung:Malaysia captain Dion Cools has praised his teammates, center-back Brad Tapp and defensive midfielder Nooa Laine, for their strong defensive performances in the opening matches of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Cools highlighted the effective partnership with Tapp, which has contributed to Malaysia's back-to-back clean sheets. Malaysia won 3-0 against Bangladesh and secured a goalless draw with hosts Indonesia at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.

Tapp, a 25-year-old mixed-heritage defender, is a recent addition to the national team, joining naturalised forwards Bergson da Silva and Manuel Hidalgo. Cools, who plays for Cerezo Osaka FC, also praised Nooa Laine for his growing influence in the team. The Finland-born midfielder has shown maturity with each call-up, demonstrating quality and a willingness to absorb tactical instructions.

The Malaysian team, led by interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe, will face Singapore in their final Division 1 Group A match at Stadium Si Jalak Harupat in Bandung. Malaysia currently leads Group A with four points, tied with Indonesia but ahead on goal difference, while Singapore sits in third place with three points and Bangladesh is last.

In this inaugural tournament, the group winners will advance to the final, while the runners-up will compete in the third-place playoff. Both matches are scheduled to take place at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium next Monday.