Kuala Lumpur: National head coach Peter Cklamovski has recognised the tough challenge ahead as Harimau Malaya aim to overturn more than a decade of winless results against Vietnam in their crucial Group F 2027 Asian Cup qualifier next Tuesday (June 10). The Australian coach said he respects Vietnam but is determined to make history with Malaysia.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Cklamovski emphasized the importance of the upcoming match, noting that Malaysia has not beaten Vietnam for over 10 years. He expressed his determination to change this narrative and make history for the national team. “Malaysia hasn’t beaten Vietnam for over 10 years. That’s more than a decade and this is a moment we want to overturn and change a bit of history. So full respect to Vietnam. I don’t focus on one player (opponent); I focus on the whole team. We look forward to the challenge on June 10th,” the 46-year-old coach told reporters during the national team’s training session, which was also attended by Vietnamese media.
Cklamovski acknowledged the strengths of Vietnam, who are led by South Korean Kim Sang Sik, describing them as a strong and skilful side. He mentioned that he has thoroughly studied the entire squad. “I’ve watched all of them. They’re a very good team, a strong squad. Full respect to Vietnam – they’re a very good footballing side,” he said.
Currently, Vietnam and Malaysia jointly top the group with three points each after securing victories in their opening matches. Historically, Malaysia last defeated Vietnam in 2014 and has since suffered seven defeats with only one draw in their subsequent eight encounters. The last meeting between the two teams ended with Vietnam securing a 3-0 victory in the group stage of the 2022 ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Cup, now known as the ASEAN Championship.
In preparation for the upcoming qualifier, Cklamovski’s men are set to face the world number 72 ranked team, Cape Verde, in a closed-door friendly at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil. This follows their recent 1-1 draw in a Tier 1 international match at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras last Thursday.