Bandung:Malaysia captain Dion Cools expressed disappointment as Harimau Malaya left Gelora Bung Karno Stadium with only one point following a goalless draw with Indonesia in their FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 Division 1 Group A match.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia was particularly dominant in the second half and seemed to deserve more, especially after Indonesia played with 10 men for about 70 minutes due to Thom Haye's red card. However, Cools emphasized that the draw would be insignificant unless Malaysia secures a victory against Singapore in their upcoming match at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium in Bandung on Thursday.

Cools, a defender for Cerezo Osaka FC, acknowledged the team's strong performance but stressed the importance of preparing well for the next game against Singapore. He expressed confidence in Malaysia's ability to achieve a good result, which could potentially lead them to the final.

The team captain highlighted the need to respect Singapore, acknowledging them as a tough opponent, while also maintaining confidence in Malaysia's own capabilities. He stressed the importance of recovering well before facing Singapore, as Malaysia aims to secure their spot in the final with a win.

Currently, Malaysia leads Group A with four points, level with Indonesia but ahead on goal difference. Singapore follows in third place with three points, while Bangladesh remains at the bottom with no points. The group winners will progress to the final of the inaugural tournament, with the runners-up competing in the third-place playoff. Both matches are set to take place at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium next Monday.