Malaysia coach determined to win opening match at Southeast Asian tournament

Coach Nafuzi Zain affirmed that Malaysia U19 must defeat Singapore in the opening match to open the opportunity to earn a ticket to the semifinals of the 2026 Southeast Asian U19 Championship.

The Malaysia U19 team is aiming for the goal of a favorable start at the 2026 Southeast Asian U19 Championship as they prepare to enter the opening match against Singapore U19 on June 2. Given the importance of this year's group stage, coach Nafuzi Zain affirmed that the whole team must not be complacent if they want to realize the goal of earning a ticket to the semifinals.

According to the schedule, Malaysia U19 is in Group B with opponents Singapore, Brunei, and Thailand. After facing Singapore, the yellow team will successively meet Brunei and title contender Thailand. In a context where only three group winners and one best runner-up advance, each match is crucial for the ambitions of the participating teams.

Before departing for Indonesia for the tournament, coach Nafuzi Zain said he was satisfied with the preparation of his players after nine days of training. The coach was especially pleased that the squad did not record any unfortunate injuries. He shared: "The most important thing is that all players are not injured. After nine days of training, no one is injured and everyone is healthy. That is what makes me relieved."

Although rated higher than Singapore and Brunei, the Malaysian strategist remained cautious about the race in the group. He emphasized that the result of the opening match could directly affect the team's chances of advancing. "We cannot say whether this group is too difficult or too easy. That depends on the first match. Previously, we failed to get through the group stage because we lost the opening match. This time, the first match is very important and we must win to open the door to the semifinals", Nafuzi said.

The coach also showed great respect for Singapore U19, a team believed to have had a thorough preparation before the tournament. He warned his players not to underestimate the opponent. "I know Singapore has prepared well and they have quality players. People might think Malaysia can win, but football matches must be decided on the pitch", Nafuzi said.

Besides the goal of taking all three points, coach Nafuzi Zain also expects the young players to show their mettle and confidence in their first regional tournament. He said: "I hope the players can execute the plan well and stay calm. Not all of them have worn the national team jersey before, whether at U16 or U19 level. The most important thing is to win the first match." The strategist also concluded with optimism: "The players' confidence is more important than my confidence. What they showed in training has given me confidence and reassurance. This is the first time I have met and trained with many of these players, but I see positive signs."