Bangkok: Forward Muhammad Haqimi Azim Rosli is set to rejoin the national Under-23 (U-23) squad ahead of the men's football semifinal clash against the hosts at the Thailand SEA Games 2025 here on Monday. National head coach Mohd Nafuzi Zain confirmed that Muhammad Haqimi, who had been on leave to attend the funeral of his stepfather Shahrol Asikin Mohd Shariff, is scheduled to report back this afternoon.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Muhammad Haqimi had pledged to return if the team qualified for the semifinals. His presence is crucial as the team faces several injuries, making him the only available striker. Muhammad Haqimi previously scored in Malaysia's 4-1 victory over Laos but missed the subsequent match against Vietnam, resulting in a 0-2 defeat for Malaysia.

Furthermore, Sabah FC striker Fergus Tierney will be unavailable for the upcoming match against Thailand due to the FA Cup final between Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) and Sabah.

Mohd Nafuzi expressed readiness to face Thailand, aiming for a spot in the final and a chance to compete for the gold medal. Despite Thailand's home-ground advantage, he remains confident in his players' motivation and performance.

The other semifinal in the tournament will see Vietnam face the Philippines. Defender Ahmad Aysar Hadi Mohd Shapri urged his teammates to maintain focus and composure, emphasizing the importance of not being intimidated by the home crowd.

Malaysia's recent history in the SEA Games includes elimination at the group stage in 2023 and a loss in the bronze-medal playoff in 2021. The last medal won by Malaysia was a silver at the 2017 SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur.