The Gelora Bung Karno Senayan Main Stadium in Jakarta has a feared reputation.
In fact, it was once deemed a “high risk” venue by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) due to crowd violence.
But for national goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, the Senayan Stadium is his favourite hunting ground.
“I have fond memories of the venue from 13 months ago. It was there that I became a national hero when I saved a penalty en route to the team’s victory over Indonesia in the Suzuki Cup Asean Football Federation (AFF) championship,” Khairul said before the national Under-23 squad left for the SEA Games in Jakarta yesterday.
Khairul, then a rookie in the senior squad, made heads turn with his heroics when he stopped Firman Utina’s spot kick in the 19th minute in the return-leg of the final. Malaysia, who had won the home-leg 3-0 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil, lost the second leg 2-1 to lift the Cup 4-2 on aggregate.
Khairul said even though the Indonesian fans were hostile he was cool and composed.
“It doesn’t matter who we play, the important thing is for the players not to be intimidated by the fans.
“We played infront of a hostile crowd of about 100,000 that day. Even though we lost the second-leg, we emerged champions and trooped out with our heads high.
“Now, it is time for us to defend the SEA Games title.
“Of course, we are in a killer group but we have to be positive. Nobody gave us a chance to become champions in the Suzuki Cup. Remember we lost badly to Indonesia (1-5) in the opening game but we went on to lift the Cup.
“Every match is crucial and we have to start with a win against Singapore in the opening game.
“The trick to playing at Senayan is to settle down quickly and get going,” added Khairul.
“Some may fear the venue but I will always have a good feeling playing in Senayan.”
Malaysia have a tough draw in Group A, pitted against Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia and hosts Indonesia. Group B comprises Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Philippines, Timor Leste and Brunei.
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