Johor Bahru: The selection of Natxo Insa and Mohamadou Sumareh for the Harimau Malaya squad has been confirmed as meeting the criteria necessary to strengthen the team ahead of their opening Group F match in the 2027 Asia Cup Qualifiers against Nepal. The match is scheduled to take place at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium on March 25.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, National Head Coach Peter Cklamovski emphasized that the profiles of Natxo and Sumareh align with the style of play he aims to implement during the training camp. Cklamovski expressed his preference for attacking-minded, positive players who are committed to playing aggressive football, stating that the team consists of players capable of competing against each other daily. This competitive environment is expected to result in a strong lineup for the upcoming match against Nepal.

Cklamovski addressed questions regarding the selection of Natxo and Sumareh, explaining that the squad’s preparation will begin today in Johor Bahru. The 27 selected players will undergo medical and physical assessments before being divided into several groups for training sessions. The coach highlighted the importance of ensuring productive training, whether through recovery-focused activities or full field sessions, depending on player readiness.

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has confirmed that the Harimau Malaya squad will face Nepal in their first 2027 Asia Cup Qualifiers match at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 10 pm. The venue was changed following a request from the All Nepal Football Association due to maintenance work at Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu. Consequently, the return match on November 18 will now take place in Nepal.