The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) must look at its own flaws during the SEA Games before even deciding to report Minoru Tojo, the referee in the SEA Games final between Indonesia and Malaysia, to the world governing body FIFA.
Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) Deputy President Tan Sri Annuar Musa said PSSI’s decision (to report Minoru to FIFA) was a desperate attempt because they (PSSI) cannot accept the defeat toMalaysia.
“The entrance of the players to the field lacked security, the bus that brought the players was obstructed for about an hour and I was in the bus. The fans jeered the Malaysian players throughout and PSSI did nothing.
“The association did not take any preventive measures to ease the tense situation and even if there was it was not enough,” he told reporters after attending a Youth Programme in Kelantan here on Saturday.
Indonesian daily Jakarta Post had quoted PSSI President Djohar Ariffin as saying that PSSI would lodge an official complaint with FIFA about the quality of refereeing by Japanese referee Tojo during the SEA Games football final at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium inJakarta.
“There was something wrong with the leadership of the referee yesterday. We will immediately report him to FIFA,” PSSI chief Djohar Arifin said on Tuesday night as quoted by kompas.com.
He cited as an example how the referee disallowed two goals byIndonesia.
“The call for the first disallowed goal was fine, but there was absolutely nothing wrong with second disallowed goal,” he had said.
He had also said that the referee had ignored several cases of Malaysian players handling the ball in their own penalty area.
According to Djohar, even though the report to FIFA would not change the result of the game, he said that it would serve as a warning for referees whose performance put teams at a disadvantage.
Malaysia won the final 4-3 in the penalty shootout after the two teams were tied 1-1 until extra time.
Annuar said it was not the first time that security was ‘unsatisfactory’ when Malaysia played Indonesiain their own stadium because during the AFF Suzuki Cup final, players and officials had also faced similar treatment.
“When the Indonesian team was in Malaysiafor the first leg final of the AFF Suzuki Cup, we gave them every assistance to ensure their safety. FAM too can lodge a report to FIFA, but we will not retort to such action because it will only prolong the matter,” he said
Showing posts with label SEA Games. Show all posts
Showing posts with label SEA Games. Show all posts
Tuesday, 6 December 2011
Thursday, 24 November 2011
Malaysian players to receive reward for winning gold medal in SEA Games
The Malaysian Under-23 team who beat Indonesia in the final of the SEA Games football competition to win the gold medal are expected to receive RM30,000 each from Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president Sultan Ahmad Shah.
Team manager Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said the squad under coach Ong Kim Swee would receive RM30,000 each for their win against Indonesia.
"After the win against Indonesia yesterday, Sultan Ahmad Shah agreed to give each player RM30,000 as incentive," he said.
Hamidin said the squad would also be send to Sydney, Australia in mid-December for training cum friendly matches.
"After the FAM technical meeting we agreed to send the squad to Australia and hope the National Sports Council will support us," he said.
He added that the squad will face Syria in their Olympic Qualifier match Wednesday at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
"I hope the fans can come and support the team because only 2,000 tickets have been sold thus far. Our target is to sell at least 30,000 tickets," he said.
Tickets for grandstand seats are priced at RM40 and open terrace seats are priced at RM20.
Team manager Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said the squad under coach Ong Kim Swee would receive RM30,000 each for their win against Indonesia.
"After the win against Indonesia yesterday, Sultan Ahmad Shah agreed to give each player RM30,000 as incentive," he said.
Hamidin said the squad would also be send to Sydney, Australia in mid-December for training cum friendly matches.
"After the FAM technical meeting we agreed to send the squad to Australia and hope the National Sports Council will support us," he said.
He added that the squad will face Syria in their Olympic Qualifier match Wednesday at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
"I hope the fans can come and support the team because only 2,000 tickets have been sold thus far. Our target is to sell at least 30,000 tickets," he said.
Tickets for grandstand seats are priced at RM40 and open terrace seats are priced at RM20.
Wednesday, 23 November 2011
Malaysia should compete with Asian teams next
Malaysia’s success in winning back-to-back SEA Games football gold is a positive sign of the development work carried out by the FA of Malaysia (FAM).
The Harimau Muda (Young Tigers) team’s extensive exposure in Slovakia plus their playing stints in the Premier (Under-19) and Super Leagues (Under-21) have shown positive results. But this is not the ideal preparation if they are to become world beaters.
The SEA Games are just the stepping stone as there is a vast disparity in standards when it comes to playing against top teams in Asia. That is what FAM should be looking at.
Let the good times roll: Coach Ong Kim Swee (centre in blue) hugging his players after the final against Indonesia on Monday.
The SEA Games success, while laudable, must be taken in context: Malaysia are, at the moment, big fish in a very small pond.
A good example is the reminder Japan gave coach Ong Kim Swee’s Under-22 boys in beating them 2-0, in their opening match of the Asian Zone final round qualifier for the London Olympics, in Fukuoka a couple of months ago. Malaysia were let off the hook despite Japan having 26 shots at goal to Malaysia’s meagre two.
The pragmatic Kim Swee is well aware that his boys have a long way to go.
“We are on the right track, but there is much work to be done,” said Kim Swee, who feels that the players would benefit more by having stints with top clubs in Europe on a regular basis.
He said, for example, the three players on loan to FC Vion in Slovakia’s Corgon Liga could only improve from the experience.
Indonesia’s Octo Maniani walking away with the best player award
Centreback Mohd Fadhli Shas and midfielders Wan Zack Haikal Wan Nor and Mohd Irfan Fazail have been on loan for three months prior to the SEA Games in Jakarta.
The Bukit Jalil Sports Schools (BJSS), which has been the nursery for young football talent, also needs recognition and more aid for the fantastic job done by coach Aminuddin Hussein.
Most of the boys in the Harimau Muda squad are graduates of BJSS, including national goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat and 17-year-old Mohd Nazmi Faiz, who played a sterling role in Malaysia’s Jakarta triumph.
Kim Swee said Mohd Nazmi has a great future and had fitted in well in the national Under-23 squad, blending easily with the seniors.
“Mohd Nazmi can play in the next four SEA Games. He has the talent to go far,” said Kim Swee, who made heads turn in Jakarta by fielding mostly players below 20 years of age.
Those eligible for the next Games in Myanmar are Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Mohd Fadhli Shas, Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim, Mohd Fandi Othman, A. Thamil Arasu, Mohd Ameer Saidin, Mohd Irfan Fazail and Wan Zaharulnizam Wan Zakaria.
Malaysia should attempt to raise the bar by flexing their muscles against Asian giants next. The chances of getting past the final round of the Olympic qualifiers are slim as, other than Japan, they also have Syria and Bahrain for company.
Kim Swee’s next target should the Incheon Asian Games in 2014 – and then take it from there.
The Harimau Muda (Young Tigers) team’s extensive exposure in Slovakia plus their playing stints in the Premier (Under-19) and Super Leagues (Under-21) have shown positive results. But this is not the ideal preparation if they are to become world beaters.
The SEA Games are just the stepping stone as there is a vast disparity in standards when it comes to playing against top teams in Asia. That is what FAM should be looking at.
Let the good times roll: Coach Ong Kim Swee (centre in blue) hugging his players after the final against Indonesia on Monday.
The SEA Games success, while laudable, must be taken in context: Malaysia are, at the moment, big fish in a very small pond.
A good example is the reminder Japan gave coach Ong Kim Swee’s Under-22 boys in beating them 2-0, in their opening match of the Asian Zone final round qualifier for the London Olympics, in Fukuoka a couple of months ago. Malaysia were let off the hook despite Japan having 26 shots at goal to Malaysia’s meagre two.
The pragmatic Kim Swee is well aware that his boys have a long way to go.
“We are on the right track, but there is much work to be done,” said Kim Swee, who feels that the players would benefit more by having stints with top clubs in Europe on a regular basis.
He said, for example, the three players on loan to FC Vion in Slovakia’s Corgon Liga could only improve from the experience.
Indonesia’s Octo Maniani walking away with the best player award
Centreback Mohd Fadhli Shas and midfielders Wan Zack Haikal Wan Nor and Mohd Irfan Fazail have been on loan for three months prior to the SEA Games in Jakarta.
The Bukit Jalil Sports Schools (BJSS), which has been the nursery for young football talent, also needs recognition and more aid for the fantastic job done by coach Aminuddin Hussein.
Most of the boys in the Harimau Muda squad are graduates of BJSS, including national goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat and 17-year-old Mohd Nazmi Faiz, who played a sterling role in Malaysia’s Jakarta triumph.
Kim Swee said Mohd Nazmi has a great future and had fitted in well in the national Under-23 squad, blending easily with the seniors.
“Mohd Nazmi can play in the next four SEA Games. He has the talent to go far,” said Kim Swee, who made heads turn in Jakarta by fielding mostly players below 20 years of age.
Those eligible for the next Games in Myanmar are Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Mohd Fadhli Shas, Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim, Mohd Fandi Othman, A. Thamil Arasu, Mohd Ameer Saidin, Mohd Irfan Fazail and Wan Zaharulnizam Wan Zakaria.
Malaysia should attempt to raise the bar by flexing their muscles against Asian giants next. The chances of getting past the final round of the Olympic qualifiers are slim as, other than Japan, they also have Syria and Bahrain for company.
Kim Swee’s next target should the Incheon Asian Games in 2014 – and then take it from there.
Tuesday, 22 November 2011
Malaysia wins right to be called best team in region
Having defended the SEA Games gold medal last night proved Harimau Muda are Asean's best, and winning the SEA Games 2009 and the Asean Football Federation Cup (AFF) in 2010 was no fluke, either.
Although the performance of Harimau Muda prior to this was disputed, the absolute victory last night silenced the Indonesian media and fanatical supporters of the Garuda Muda squad.
The Indonesian media now admitted Malaysia is King of Asean Football.
Malaysia defended the gold medal it won in Laos in 2009 by subduing Indonesia 4-3 through a penalty shootout last night.
Malaysia beat Indonesia 1-0 in the last match of Group A, and last night, Malaysia tamed them again on their own sacred field, Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.
Ong said the match last night would not have gone into extra time or a penalty shootout had Wan Zaharulnizam Wan Zakaria, Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim and Izzaq Faris Ramlan been able to play. They were injured in the match against Myanmar.
Malaysia stepped into the final match after beating Myanmar 1-0 while Indonesia beat Vietnam 2-0 in another semi-final match.
Ong said he had told his players to make short passes during extra time as they were already tired after playing three matches with only a day's rest in between matches.
He also said Mohamad Fadhli Mohd Shas's dan Mohd Irfan Fazail's experiences in Slovakia also contributed to the squad's game.
He also gave credit to his players who were not disturbed by the psychological play of the opposition supporters but focused fully on the game.
Although the performance of Harimau Muda prior to this was disputed, the absolute victory last night silenced the Indonesian media and fanatical supporters of the Garuda Muda squad.
The Indonesian media now admitted Malaysia is King of Asean Football.
Malaysia defended the gold medal it won in Laos in 2009 by subduing Indonesia 4-3 through a penalty shootout last night.
Malaysia beat Indonesia 1-0 in the last match of Group A, and last night, Malaysia tamed them again on their own sacred field, Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.
Ong said the match last night would not have gone into extra time or a penalty shootout had Wan Zaharulnizam Wan Zakaria, Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim and Izzaq Faris Ramlan been able to play. They were injured in the match against Myanmar.
Malaysia stepped into the final match after beating Myanmar 1-0 while Indonesia beat Vietnam 2-0 in another semi-final match.
Ong said he had told his players to make short passes during extra time as they were already tired after playing three matches with only a day's rest in between matches.
He also said Mohamad Fadhli Mohd Shas's dan Mohd Irfan Fazail's experiences in Slovakia also contributed to the squad's game.
He also gave credit to his players who were not disturbed by the psychological play of the opposition supporters but focused fully on the game.
Malaysian PM praises team for winning gold in SEA Games
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak tweeted a congratulation message for the Malaysian football team from Seri Perdana on Monday night.
According to an aide, Najib had watched the match from his official residence in Putrajaya.
“Syabas and congratulations Team Malaysia ! Me and the people extremely happy. They played with full of spirit,” was posted by Najib’s in his Twitter account minutes after the Malaysian team clinched the SEA Games gold medal.
Earlier at about 7pm, before the match kicked-off, Najib had tweeted: “Could be a tough game against Indonesia tonight for SEA Games gold. Let's give our full 1Malaysia support to the nat'l football team.”
Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin last night said the football players will receive special incentives and he will discuss it with the Youth and Sports Ministry.
“The incentives will not only be for the football players but for all those who had won in the Sea Games, he said,
Muhyiddin watched the match after giving a speech at the Sirim-Industry dinner 2011 at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Projectors showcasing the games was installed at all four corner of the conference hall for ardent football fans to keep track live of the game.
Muhyiddin said the entire nation was happy with the winning and said the players also showed a vast improvement in their game.
“The glory of football is back after so many years,” he said after the fourth goal was scored by Malaysian football team, he said.
Najib and Muhyiddin’s jubilation was also shared by Facebook followers who posted numerous requests asking for a public holiday to be declared today to celebrate the football team’s success in defending their gold medal.
Ng Ju Yin commented on Najib’s Facebook wall “Ello my beloved PM~ boleh jadikan esok hari cuti???? tolong~ >.<”.
Wong Siaw Jean said “Dear PM, can we have one day holiday to celebrate this victory moment?”.
In a tweet later Najib responded by saying that having a public holiday for winning the Sea games football gold medal would prove to be a costly affair.
“ To my tweeter friends , It is very costly to the nation to have a public holiday. We must not overdo it . We need to work hard ”, he said.
Meanwhile, Malaysian goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat became a worldwide trending sensation for a while on Twitter as thousands of Malaysian tweeted about him.
According to an aide, Najib had watched the match from his official residence in Putrajaya.
“Syabas and congratulations Team Malaysia ! Me and the people extremely happy. They played with full of spirit,” was posted by Najib’s in his Twitter account minutes after the Malaysian team clinched the SEA Games gold medal.
Earlier at about 7pm, before the match kicked-off, Najib had tweeted: “Could be a tough game against Indonesia tonight for SEA Games gold. Let's give our full 1Malaysia support to the nat'l football team.”
Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin last night said the football players will receive special incentives and he will discuss it with the Youth and Sports Ministry.
“The incentives will not only be for the football players but for all those who had won in the Sea Games, he said,
Muhyiddin watched the match after giving a speech at the Sirim-Industry dinner 2011 at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Projectors showcasing the games was installed at all four corner of the conference hall for ardent football fans to keep track live of the game.
Muhyiddin said the entire nation was happy with the winning and said the players also showed a vast improvement in their game.
“The glory of football is back after so many years,” he said after the fourth goal was scored by Malaysian football team, he said.
Najib and Muhyiddin’s jubilation was also shared by Facebook followers who posted numerous requests asking for a public holiday to be declared today to celebrate the football team’s success in defending their gold medal.
Ng Ju Yin commented on Najib’s Facebook wall “Ello my beloved PM~ boleh jadikan esok hari cuti???? tolong~ >.<”.
Wong Siaw Jean said “Dear PM, can we have one day holiday to celebrate this victory moment?”.
In a tweet later Najib responded by saying that having a public holiday for winning the Sea games football gold medal would prove to be a costly affair.
“ To my tweeter friends , It is very costly to the nation to have a public holiday. We must not overdo it . We need to work hard ”, he said.
Meanwhile, Malaysian goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat became a worldwide trending sensation for a while on Twitter as thousands of Malaysian tweeted about him.
Malaysia wins penalty shootout to win gold in SEA Games
Malaysia are champions of the Sea Games again! Baddrol Bakhtiar's winning penalty in a 4-3 shoot-out win ensured Malaysia retained the football gold medal following a tense final against Indonesia at Gelora Bung Karno yesterday.
After full-time and extra-time ended 1-1, it came down to the lottery of the penalty kicks as goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat's save from Ferdinand Sinaga set Baddrol up for a grand-stand finish.
The win revived memories of 1979 when Mokhtar Dahari scored the goal which sank Indonesia 1-0 in the Sea Games final in Jakarta, which also happened to be Malaysia's only other back-to-back successes.
An ecstatic coach Ong Kim Swee also finally revealed his secret pep talk: "They don't respect you, they don't respect our flag, they don't respect our King and they don't respect your parents. If you allow this to happen, then you are cowards. You must teach them what being Malaysian is all about.
"We beat them not once but twice in front of their fanatical crowds. We showed them how it is done."
He added: "It was a tough job in selecting players as we have faced so many injuries but no matter who I picked to play they gave it their all.
"As a coach I did not have to tell the players what to do. They already knew the situation so when it came to the penalties, they showed good character and attitude."
But it did not start well for the Malaysian players, perhaps shell-shocked after the bus carrying them into the stadium was attacked tentatively.
Indonesia, bidding to end a 20-year gold medal drought in football, started at a furious pace as Fahmi was put to work immediately.
As early as the third minute, Fahmi went low to parry Titus Bonai's pile-driver before coming off his line to deny Andik Vermansyah two minutes later.
But there was little Fahmi could do with Indonesia's opener in the sixth minute when Gunawan Dwi Cahyo rose high at the back post to nod in a corner.
To Malaysia's credit they did not fold as Asraruddin Putra Omar had a point-blank header blocked by goalkeeper Kurnia Meiga in the 13th minute.
Indonesia had a goal disallowed for offside four minutes later before Irfan Fazail wasted an opportunity when his shot was deflected after Kurnia had dropped a harmless-looking cross.
Malaysia were not to be denied though as Baddrol whipped a cross in which Asraruddin stooped low to head into goal, the ball rolling across the line, in the 35th minute.
Eight minutes after half-time, Malaysia should have scored on the break but Ahmad Fakri Sarrani went for goal from a tight angle when a teammate was better placed and had his shot saved.
Two minutes later Irfan scuffed his attempt from inside the box before Fakri wasted another chance in the 65th minute when he shot wildly after being played in by Baddrol.
Up at the other end Oktovianus Maniani turned two Malaysian defenders before firing into the side-netting before Baddrol had Kurnia at full-stretch to turn his free-kick away in the 85th minute.
That forced extra-time when Indonesia again had a goal ruled out for offside as the two tired teams struggled to create chances, leading to penalties.
Gunawan hit Indonesia's second penalty against the post before Fakri fluffed his. Then came Fahmi's brilliant save before Baddrol ensured Malaysia won the Sea Games football gold for a sixth time.
After full-time and extra-time ended 1-1, it came down to the lottery of the penalty kicks as goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat's save from Ferdinand Sinaga set Baddrol up for a grand-stand finish.
The win revived memories of 1979 when Mokhtar Dahari scored the goal which sank Indonesia 1-0 in the Sea Games final in Jakarta, which also happened to be Malaysia's only other back-to-back successes.
An ecstatic coach Ong Kim Swee also finally revealed his secret pep talk: "They don't respect you, they don't respect our flag, they don't respect our King and they don't respect your parents. If you allow this to happen, then you are cowards. You must teach them what being Malaysian is all about.
"We beat them not once but twice in front of their fanatical crowds. We showed them how it is done."
He added: "It was a tough job in selecting players as we have faced so many injuries but no matter who I picked to play they gave it their all.
"As a coach I did not have to tell the players what to do. They already knew the situation so when it came to the penalties, they showed good character and attitude."
But it did not start well for the Malaysian players, perhaps shell-shocked after the bus carrying them into the stadium was attacked tentatively.
Indonesia, bidding to end a 20-year gold medal drought in football, started at a furious pace as Fahmi was put to work immediately.
As early as the third minute, Fahmi went low to parry Titus Bonai's pile-driver before coming off his line to deny Andik Vermansyah two minutes later.
But there was little Fahmi could do with Indonesia's opener in the sixth minute when Gunawan Dwi Cahyo rose high at the back post to nod in a corner.
To Malaysia's credit they did not fold as Asraruddin Putra Omar had a point-blank header blocked by goalkeeper Kurnia Meiga in the 13th minute.
Indonesia had a goal disallowed for offside four minutes later before Irfan Fazail wasted an opportunity when his shot was deflected after Kurnia had dropped a harmless-looking cross.
Malaysia were not to be denied though as Baddrol whipped a cross in which Asraruddin stooped low to head into goal, the ball rolling across the line, in the 35th minute.
Eight minutes after half-time, Malaysia should have scored on the break but Ahmad Fakri Sarrani went for goal from a tight angle when a teammate was better placed and had his shot saved.
Two minutes later Irfan scuffed his attempt from inside the box before Fakri wasted another chance in the 65th minute when he shot wildly after being played in by Baddrol.
Up at the other end Oktovianus Maniani turned two Malaysian defenders before firing into the side-netting before Baddrol had Kurnia at full-stretch to turn his free-kick away in the 85th minute.
That forced extra-time when Indonesia again had a goal ruled out for offside as the two tired teams struggled to create chances, leading to penalties.
Gunawan hit Indonesia's second penalty against the post before Fakri fluffed his. Then came Fahmi's brilliant save before Baddrol ensured Malaysia won the Sea Games football gold for a sixth time.
Malaysia overcome pressure to beat Indonesia in SEA Games final
Indonesia may have captured 170 gold medals in the Sea Games but Malaysia denied the host the one it craved the most by winning the football final at the Gelora Bung Karno stadium in Jakarta yesterday.
The brave Young Tigers withstood tremendous pressure from their opponents and the partisan 100,000 emotional fans in the stadium to come from behind, force extra time and then win the ensuing penalty shoot-out 4-3 after the match ended 1-1.
Amid an electrifying and tense atmosphere which had the populations of both countries glued to their television sets, Ong Kim Swee’s boys walked tall after having faced many hostile situations since arriving in Jakarta two weeks ago.
In an ominous sign of what was going to be a long night for the Under-23 Malaysian team, their trip to the stadium was delayed by 40 minutes because of hostile fans along the way.
Many fans, who were in a rage after failing to get tickets, had set fire to ticket booths, worsening the situation.
The Malaysian team had opted not to take the Barracuda armoured vehicles, deciding to brave the journey to the stadium in a bus.
It took character to do that and the Malaysians showed they had an ample supply of that when they fought back despite seeing Indonesia taking the lead in the sixth minute.
They didn’t give up and kept pressing for the equaliser, even as the jeers from the stands grew louder.
And when it came to the penalty shoot-out, Malaysia proved they had nerves of steel, compared with the Indonesians who missed two of their attempts.
On the other hand, goalkeeper Kharul Fahmi epitomised the courage of the Young Tigers with his heroics in the penalty shoot-out while skipper Baddrol Bakthiar scored the
winner.
The Malaysian team’s tigerish performance was indeed a true manisfestation of the Malaysia Boleh spirit.
Malaysia, who started the Sea Games campaign with a tame 0-0 draw against Singapore, managed to defend the gold it won in 2009 in Laos.
The brave Young Tigers withstood tremendous pressure from their opponents and the partisan 100,000 emotional fans in the stadium to come from behind, force extra time and then win the ensuing penalty shoot-out 4-3 after the match ended 1-1.
Amid an electrifying and tense atmosphere which had the populations of both countries glued to their television sets, Ong Kim Swee’s boys walked tall after having faced many hostile situations since arriving in Jakarta two weeks ago.
In an ominous sign of what was going to be a long night for the Under-23 Malaysian team, their trip to the stadium was delayed by 40 minutes because of hostile fans along the way.
Many fans, who were in a rage after failing to get tickets, had set fire to ticket booths, worsening the situation.
The Malaysian team had opted not to take the Barracuda armoured vehicles, deciding to brave the journey to the stadium in a bus.
It took character to do that and the Malaysians showed they had an ample supply of that when they fought back despite seeing Indonesia taking the lead in the sixth minute.
They didn’t give up and kept pressing for the equaliser, even as the jeers from the stands grew louder.
And when it came to the penalty shoot-out, Malaysia proved they had nerves of steel, compared with the Indonesians who missed two of their attempts.
On the other hand, goalkeeper Kharul Fahmi epitomised the courage of the Young Tigers with his heroics in the penalty shoot-out while skipper Baddrol Bakthiar scored the
winner.
The Malaysian team’s tigerish performance was indeed a true manisfestation of the Malaysia Boleh spirit.
Malaysia, who started the Sea Games campaign with a tame 0-0 draw against Singapore, managed to defend the gold it won in 2009 in Laos.
Malaysia beat Indonesia to win gold in SEA Games
Defending champions Malaysia retained the coveted SEA Games football gold when they defeated hosts Indonesia 4-3 on penalty kicks in a blood-and-guts clash at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Senayan last night.
It was their first ever back-to-back success in the history of the Games and also took Malaysia’s gold tally to a respectable 59 – 14 more than projected. It also denied Indonesia the gold that they wanted most to cap their domination of these Games.
Malaysia’s heroes were goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat and skipper Baddrol Bakhtiar. Khairul for stopping Indonesia’s last kick by Ferdinan Sinaga and Baddrol for tucking away the winner in the shootout.
The gutsy Malaysians had fought back from an early goal down to equalise and looked good for a win in regulation time. But poor finishing saw the tie forced into extra-time which also failed to produce a winner.
In the ensuing shootout, Gunawan, who scored the opening goal for Indonesia, turned villain when he missed his spot kick to give Malaysia the advantage before Ahmad Fakri Saarani blew his attempt to make it 2-2. Khairul then did his magic and Baddrol made sure the gold went to Malaysia.
It was heartbreak for the 100,000 raucous fans who could not accept defeat and threw water bottles into the stands.
For Indonesia, it was a second major blow in a year, having lost to Malaysia in the Suzuki Cup Asean Football Federation (AFF) Championships (4-2 on aggregate) here 11 months ago.
Malaysia should have sealed the match in 90 minutes. They had more chances compared to Indonesia, who only looked dangerous on the break.
Coach Ong Kim Swee had to start without three key players who were on the crock list - forwards Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim, Izzaq Faris Ramlan and midfielder Wan Zaharulnisam Wan Zakaria.
All three were key hands who had scored crucial goals in Malaysia’s campaign – Syahrul in the 1-0 win over Indonesia earlier and Izzaq who scored the winning goal in the 2-0 decision against Thailand.
Yet, the Malaysians showed character to take on the Indonesians and silence the ‘Senayan Roar’ with their gutsy display in a pulsating match.
The home fans did their part cheering their team on and singing patriotic songs to raise their game. But it was Malaysia who were on the offensive and kept the fans on edge throughout.
A defensive lapse saw Malaysia concede an early goal when Gunawan nodded in from a corner-kick beating goalkeeper Khairul in the fifth minute.
The Malaysians were under tremendous pressure from the starting whistle with speedy Octo Maniani and Titus Bonai creating havoc down the flanks.
Goalkeeper Khairul did well to make two crucial saves from attempts by Titus and striker Patrich Wanggai in the opening four minutes.
But the Malaysians did well to regain their composure and shut-off the deafening roar of the vociferous fans.
They had a golden chance to draw level but Mohd Asraruddin’s point blank header from a corner-kick was saved by Indonesian goalkeeper Kurnia Meiga in the 10th minute.
Then, Malaysia had a good spell in the Indonesian half with playmakers K. Gurusamy and skipper Baddrol winning most of the possession in midfied.
The Malaysians began to grow in confidence and could have got the equaliser if not for striker A. Thamil Arasu’s hasty shot in front of goal in the 15th minute.
The Indonesians’ early fire fizzled out as Malaysia dominated the proceedings with their neat short passess and it was not long before they found the net through Mohd Asraruddin in the 34th minute.
Baddrol put through Mohd Asraruddin to score from a diving header from close range.
The second-half was all Malaysia and striker Ahmad Fakri could have secured the win if not for his missed sitters in front of goal in the 50th and 63rd minutes.
MALAYSIA: Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Mahalli Jasuli, Mohd Azmi Zubir, Mohd Fadhli Sas, Mohd Asraruddin Putra Omar (Fandi Othman), Mohd Irfan Fazail, A. Thamil Arasu (Yong Kuong Yong), Baddrol Bakhtiar, K. Gurusamy (Mohd Nazmi Faiz), Ahmad Fakri Saarani, Mohd Muslim Ahmad.
INDONESIA: Kurnia Meiga, Mahadirga Lasut (Hendro Siswanto), Egi Melgiansyah, Octo Maniani, Gunawan Dwi Cahyo, Hasim Kipuw, Andik Vermansyah (Ferdinan Sinaga), Diego Michiels, Titus Bonai, Patrich Wanggai (Ramdani Lestaluhu), Abdul Rahman.
It was their first ever back-to-back success in the history of the Games and also took Malaysia’s gold tally to a respectable 59 – 14 more than projected. It also denied Indonesia the gold that they wanted most to cap their domination of these Games.
Malaysia’s heroes were goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat and skipper Baddrol Bakhtiar. Khairul for stopping Indonesia’s last kick by Ferdinan Sinaga and Baddrol for tucking away the winner in the shootout.
The gutsy Malaysians had fought back from an early goal down to equalise and looked good for a win in regulation time. But poor finishing saw the tie forced into extra-time which also failed to produce a winner.
In the ensuing shootout, Gunawan, who scored the opening goal for Indonesia, turned villain when he missed his spot kick to give Malaysia the advantage before Ahmad Fakri Saarani blew his attempt to make it 2-2. Khairul then did his magic and Baddrol made sure the gold went to Malaysia.
It was heartbreak for the 100,000 raucous fans who could not accept defeat and threw water bottles into the stands.
For Indonesia, it was a second major blow in a year, having lost to Malaysia in the Suzuki Cup Asean Football Federation (AFF) Championships (4-2 on aggregate) here 11 months ago.
Malaysia should have sealed the match in 90 minutes. They had more chances compared to Indonesia, who only looked dangerous on the break.
Coach Ong Kim Swee had to start without three key players who were on the crock list - forwards Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim, Izzaq Faris Ramlan and midfielder Wan Zaharulnisam Wan Zakaria.
All three were key hands who had scored crucial goals in Malaysia’s campaign – Syahrul in the 1-0 win over Indonesia earlier and Izzaq who scored the winning goal in the 2-0 decision against Thailand.
Yet, the Malaysians showed character to take on the Indonesians and silence the ‘Senayan Roar’ with their gutsy display in a pulsating match.
The home fans did their part cheering their team on and singing patriotic songs to raise their game. But it was Malaysia who were on the offensive and kept the fans on edge throughout.
A defensive lapse saw Malaysia concede an early goal when Gunawan nodded in from a corner-kick beating goalkeeper Khairul in the fifth minute.
The Malaysians were under tremendous pressure from the starting whistle with speedy Octo Maniani and Titus Bonai creating havoc down the flanks.
Goalkeeper Khairul did well to make two crucial saves from attempts by Titus and striker Patrich Wanggai in the opening four minutes.
But the Malaysians did well to regain their composure and shut-off the deafening roar of the vociferous fans.
They had a golden chance to draw level but Mohd Asraruddin’s point blank header from a corner-kick was saved by Indonesian goalkeeper Kurnia Meiga in the 10th minute.
Then, Malaysia had a good spell in the Indonesian half with playmakers K. Gurusamy and skipper Baddrol winning most of the possession in midfied.
The Malaysians began to grow in confidence and could have got the equaliser if not for striker A. Thamil Arasu’s hasty shot in front of goal in the 15th minute.
The Indonesians’ early fire fizzled out as Malaysia dominated the proceedings with their neat short passess and it was not long before they found the net through Mohd Asraruddin in the 34th minute.
Baddrol put through Mohd Asraruddin to score from a diving header from close range.
The second-half was all Malaysia and striker Ahmad Fakri could have secured the win if not for his missed sitters in front of goal in the 50th and 63rd minutes.
MALAYSIA: Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Mahalli Jasuli, Mohd Azmi Zubir, Mohd Fadhli Sas, Mohd Asraruddin Putra Omar (Fandi Othman), Mohd Irfan Fazail, A. Thamil Arasu (Yong Kuong Yong), Baddrol Bakhtiar, K. Gurusamy (Mohd Nazmi Faiz), Ahmad Fakri Saarani, Mohd Muslim Ahmad.
INDONESIA: Kurnia Meiga, Mahadirga Lasut (Hendro Siswanto), Egi Melgiansyah, Octo Maniani, Gunawan Dwi Cahyo, Hasim Kipuw, Andik Vermansyah (Ferdinan Sinaga), Diego Michiels, Titus Bonai, Patrich Wanggai (Ramdani Lestaluhu), Abdul Rahman.
Monday, 21 November 2011
Malaysian goalkeeper urges team to rise up against Indonesia in SEA Games final
Malaysian goalkeeper, Khairul Fahmi Che Mat is urging his teammates to rise up from their fatigue and close the 2011 curtain by defending the gold medal in the football final of the 16th SEA Games against Indonesia today.
The final match would take place at 7pm local time (8pm in Malaysia) at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Senayan.
The match is likened to a repeat of the Indonesia-Malaysia match in the quarter-final where Malaysia won by a solitary goal before both teams qualified for the semifinals.
According to Khairul Fahmi, or Apek, if the win could be defended, the Under-23 football squad would bring the high morale created to the 2012 Olympic qualifying group contest two days later, against Syria at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
"I am only hoping all of us (players) can give a gold medal and defend the championship as a present to Malaysians," he told Bernama at the lobby of the hotel where the Malaysian squad are staying here, Sunday.
The Kelantan-born player said he believed his teammates could boost Malaysia's dignity to its highest level in front of the Indonesian fans who would provoke and taunt the Malaysians.
"We will not bow to their taunts and the boos will make us more enthusiastic to show them who is greater.
"What is important is focus. We do not want to lose the opportunity to touch gold because the Under-23 team is taking part in the games for the first time," he said.
He said the heat would be on him as Indonesia would strive to tear open the Malaysian goal through the attacking trio from Papua New Guinea: Patrick Wanggai, Titus Bonai and Oktovianus Maniani.
"I hope the people of Malaysia will pray that we succeed and I believe our defence is the best. Any mistake, and they will have a chance at goal," he said.
The 22-year-old goalkeeper said the 'never say die' spirit demonstrated when beating Indonesia and Myanmar must be maintained if victory were to be repeated against Indonesia today.
"We are quite tired after three matches with only a day of rest in between but winning the gold medal is our priority because we are shouldering a huge challenge for the country.
"Winning the football match is like winning the whole SEA Games and also upholding Malaysia's dignity.
Starting with the match against Indonesia at the final of Group A on Thursday, the squad then met Myanmar for the semi-final decider last night, and would meet Indonesia again tonight.
The final match would take place at 7pm local time (8pm in Malaysia) at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Senayan.
The match is likened to a repeat of the Indonesia-Malaysia match in the quarter-final where Malaysia won by a solitary goal before both teams qualified for the semifinals.
According to Khairul Fahmi, or Apek, if the win could be defended, the Under-23 football squad would bring the high morale created to the 2012 Olympic qualifying group contest two days later, against Syria at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
"I am only hoping all of us (players) can give a gold medal and defend the championship as a present to Malaysians," he told Bernama at the lobby of the hotel where the Malaysian squad are staying here, Sunday.
The Kelantan-born player said he believed his teammates could boost Malaysia's dignity to its highest level in front of the Indonesian fans who would provoke and taunt the Malaysians.
"We will not bow to their taunts and the boos will make us more enthusiastic to show them who is greater.
"What is important is focus. We do not want to lose the opportunity to touch gold because the Under-23 team is taking part in the games for the first time," he said.
He said the heat would be on him as Indonesia would strive to tear open the Malaysian goal through the attacking trio from Papua New Guinea: Patrick Wanggai, Titus Bonai and Oktovianus Maniani.
"I hope the people of Malaysia will pray that we succeed and I believe our defence is the best. Any mistake, and they will have a chance at goal," he said.
The 22-year-old goalkeeper said the 'never say die' spirit demonstrated when beating Indonesia and Myanmar must be maintained if victory were to be repeated against Indonesia today.
"We are quite tired after three matches with only a day of rest in between but winning the gold medal is our priority because we are shouldering a huge challenge for the country.
"Winning the football match is like winning the whole SEA Games and also upholding Malaysia's dignity.
Starting with the match against Indonesia at the final of Group A on Thursday, the squad then met Myanmar for the semi-final decider last night, and would meet Indonesia again tonight.
Injured Izzaq Faris to miss the final against Indonesia in SEA Games
So near, and yet so far.
That appears to be the predicament for striker Izzaq Faris Ramlan who may have to sit out the SEA Games football final tomorrow, following a leg injury sustained in the semi-final match against Myanmar yesterday.
"I am sure I cannot play as my left knee is swollen from an attack by a Myanmar player," he said.
He has not been listed by under-23 squad coach Ong Kim Swee for the first 11 in the final against Indonesia tomorrow.
"It is sad that I cannot be in action in the final but I am happy that the team succeeded in entering the final despite being placed in Group A, which was considered a difficult group," he noted.
Izzaq was speaking to Bernama while watching his teammates perform light training in a hotel tennis court.
The tall player, who now moves about with the aid of a crutch, said he would probably also miss the action in the London 2012 Olympics group qualifying match against Syria on Nov 23.
Malaysia meets the Middle East team on Wednesday at 8.45pm, at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
On the leg injury, Izzaq said: "The doctors have diagnosed the injury and said I would take about month to recover."
The 21-year-old player from Terengganu sustained the injury in a tackle, a few minutes before the final whistle.
"We hope Ahmad Fakri Saarani and Azwari Ibrahim will rise to the occasion to score the goals for Malaysia," he said.
That appears to be the predicament for striker Izzaq Faris Ramlan who may have to sit out the SEA Games football final tomorrow, following a leg injury sustained in the semi-final match against Myanmar yesterday.
"I am sure I cannot play as my left knee is swollen from an attack by a Myanmar player," he said.
He has not been listed by under-23 squad coach Ong Kim Swee for the first 11 in the final against Indonesia tomorrow.
"It is sad that I cannot be in action in the final but I am happy that the team succeeded in entering the final despite being placed in Group A, which was considered a difficult group," he noted.
Izzaq was speaking to Bernama while watching his teammates perform light training in a hotel tennis court.
The tall player, who now moves about with the aid of a crutch, said he would probably also miss the action in the London 2012 Olympics group qualifying match against Syria on Nov 23.
Malaysia meets the Middle East team on Wednesday at 8.45pm, at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
On the leg injury, Izzaq said: "The doctors have diagnosed the injury and said I would take about month to recover."
The 21-year-old player from Terengganu sustained the injury in a tackle, a few minutes before the final whistle.
"We hope Ahmad Fakri Saarani and Azwari Ibrahim will rise to the occasion to score the goals for Malaysia," he said.
Uncomfortable journey to stadium for Malaysian players for SEA Games final
Though the Malaysian players hate it, they are expected to take the Barracuda armoured vehicles from their hotel to the Bung Karno Stadium here for today’s Sea Games football final against Indonesia.
Team manager Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said yesterday the players were advised to use the armoured vehicles for their own safety in view of about 100,000 hostile Indonesian fans on the route to the stadium. On Thursday, the Malaysian team complained that they had a “suffocating” trip to the stadium for a group match against Indonesia
after going in two Barracudas, which saw 10 players crammed into each vehicle.
Defender Fadhli Shas said the players fought for air and space inside the Barracudas.
“When we arrived by bus, the people outside were banging on the sides. It was dangerous but we were expecting it and made us more determined to win,” said Fadhli.
Team manager Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said yesterday the players were advised to use the armoured vehicles for their own safety in view of about 100,000 hostile Indonesian fans on the route to the stadium. On Thursday, the Malaysian team complained that they had a “suffocating” trip to the stadium for a group match against Indonesia
after going in two Barracudas, which saw 10 players crammed into each vehicle.
Defender Fadhli Shas said the players fought for air and space inside the Barracudas.
“When we arrived by bus, the people outside were banging on the sides. It was dangerous but we were expecting it and made us more determined to win,” said Fadhli.
Malaysian players in relaxed mood for final against Indonesia in SEA Games
As Baddrol Bakhtiar led his teammates out for a light workout at the team's hotel grounds in Jakarta yesterday, nobody could have guessed they were about to play in the biggest game of their lives.
None of the players exuded any fear or worries ahead of a tense and potentially explosive Sea Games football final against Indonesia at Gelora Bung Karno today.
For many in this squad, it will be the first chance of success with only four players having played in the 2009 final when Malayasia beat Vietnam 1-0 in Vietnam.
Baddrol was one of those four and the captain exuded an air of confidence of this team's ability to withstand the Indonesian onslaught.
"I expect the second meeting between us to be even more fiery than the first game (which Malaysia won 1-0 in the group stage).
"That win has given us a boost in terms our morale but we have to be cautious and not take things lightly. Although we have suffered injuries to a few players, the replacements are just as capable and our spirits remain high," said Baddrol, who has scored six goals in two Sea Games campaigns including three here.
Goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat knows only too well the reception Malaysia will face today after starring in the senior team's AFF Cup success here last year.
"Indonesia possess good attacking players and we will have to keep our focus at all times. We are all eager to play in the final and we hope to do our best to ensure we retain the gold medal," said Khairul Fahmi, who pulled off a fine point-blank save in the semi-final 1-0 win over Myanmar that ensured Malaysia made the final for the second successive time.
None of the players exuded any fear or worries ahead of a tense and potentially explosive Sea Games football final against Indonesia at Gelora Bung Karno today.
For many in this squad, it will be the first chance of success with only four players having played in the 2009 final when Malayasia beat Vietnam 1-0 in Vietnam.
Baddrol was one of those four and the captain exuded an air of confidence of this team's ability to withstand the Indonesian onslaught.
"I expect the second meeting between us to be even more fiery than the first game (which Malaysia won 1-0 in the group stage).
"That win has given us a boost in terms our morale but we have to be cautious and not take things lightly. Although we have suffered injuries to a few players, the replacements are just as capable and our spirits remain high," said Baddrol, who has scored six goals in two Sea Games campaigns including three here.
Goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat knows only too well the reception Malaysia will face today after starring in the senior team's AFF Cup success here last year.
"Indonesia possess good attacking players and we will have to keep our focus at all times. We are all eager to play in the final and we hope to do our best to ensure we retain the gold medal," said Khairul Fahmi, who pulled off a fine point-blank save in the semi-final 1-0 win over Myanmar that ensured Malaysia made the final for the second successive time.
Chartered plane to fly home Malaysian team after SEA Games final
A chartered plane will fly the Sea Games football team home immediately after today's final to allow the players to recover for Wednesday's Olympic qualifier against Syria.
The final will be the team's third game in five days and with back-to-back Olympic qualifying home games against Syria and Bahrain coming, special travelling arrangements were made for the team.
Sports Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek said the Cabinet gave the go-ahead to arrange for an AirAsia chartered flight tonight.
"An AirAsia plane will be on stand-by to fly the team home immediately after the game. We want them to have ample time to rest and recover for the Olympic qualifier against Syria on Wednesday.
"I raised the matter with the Cabinet last week and have received approval to make the arrangements," said Shabery in Jakarta yesterday.
Although 17 players in the Sea Games squad are eligible for the Olympic qualifiers, injuries mean only 13 are likely to be included in the team to face Syria.
Baddrol Baktiar, Asraruddin Putra Omar and Yong Kuong Yong are overaged and will be released once the team return home.
The final will be the team's third game in five days and with back-to-back Olympic qualifying home games against Syria and Bahrain coming, special travelling arrangements were made for the team.
Sports Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek said the Cabinet gave the go-ahead to arrange for an AirAsia chartered flight tonight.
"An AirAsia plane will be on stand-by to fly the team home immediately after the game. We want them to have ample time to rest and recover for the Olympic qualifier against Syria on Wednesday.
"I raised the matter with the Cabinet last week and have received approval to make the arrangements," said Shabery in Jakarta yesterday.
Although 17 players in the Sea Games squad are eligible for the Olympic qualifiers, injuries mean only 13 are likely to be included in the team to face Syria.
Baddrol Baktiar, Asraruddin Putra Omar and Yong Kuong Yong are overaged and will be released once the team return home.
Malaysian players fired up for final against Indonesia in SEA Games
Ong Kim Swee has reserved special words of encouragement for his players ahead of today's football final against Indonesia at the Gelora Bung Karno.
Malaysia's coach did not want to reveal what exactly he plans to say but did concede that it will be about "pride'.
Ever since the Malaysian team played the opening match against Singapore on Nov 7, they have faced nothing but obstacles from hostility in the stands to Kim Swee's touchline ban for the 1-0 win over Myanmar in the semi-finals.
A tough draw and playing four of their five matches here in afternoon heat, it is a wonder that the players have not already dropped dead of exhaustion.
All this has been enough motivation for the team to reach the final, beating Indonesia 1-0 along the way in the group stage, and Kim Swee's plans for a few more motivational words is just a little bit extra.
"I had wanted to say a few special words to them before the group match against Indonesia but I thought I'll save it for the final.
"The players are motivated enough, they all want to win this badly. But before they step on the pitch tomorrow (today), I'll say to them something that will fire them up even more.
"I can't tell you what it is, you'll know after we win," said Kim Swee, who looked fired-up himself as he spoke to Timesport yesterday.
Today's final will be Malaysia's third game in five days and the toll it has taken on the team is evident.
After the Myanmar match, winger Fandi Othman (hamstring) and strikers Izzaq Faris Ramlan (meniscus tear) and Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim (ankle) joined Wan Zaharulnizam Wan Zakaria in being ruled out of the final.
Irfan Fazail is also struggling to shake off an ankle problem to at least make the bench as Malaysia have just 13 outfield players to select from.
Zubir Azmi could make his first appearance at left-back with Asraruddin Putra Omar being pushed up the left flank while A. Thamil Arasu may replace Syahrul on the right.
"The boys are very tired as you saw in the first half against Myanmar. With the final, we will be playing four matches in eight days. We will need fresh legs tomorrow (today).
"They also had to deal with an unbelievable amount of pressure. Before coming here people were not saying make the semi-finals or final, they were saying come back with the gold medal.
"Given the group that we were in, it is a major achievement just to be in the final. We've taken it one game at a time, and now that we're in the final, that's it. We are here and going for it," added Kim Swee, who will return to the bench today.
Indonesia's attacking threat will be Kim Swee's main focus as Patrich Wanggai and Titus Bonai have scored nine goals between them here.
Malaysia will seek to negate their speed on the flanks and attempt to catch Indonesia, who defeated Vietnam 2-0 on Saturday, by controlling the tempo of the game on the break.
"Patrich, Titus and Okto (Maniani). These are the players to watch out for. Don't forget their captain (Egi Malgiansyah). We need to minimise their pace on the flanks.
"And for that I need fast players of our own. We have already lost four players to injuries but I have an idea who to put in," said Kim Swee.
No matter what happens, Kim Swee is certain his players will give nothing short of their best.
"There is no fear in them. They seem to prefer playing Indonesia than Vietnam in the final. I tested one of them by saying we'd have to travel in (armoured personnel carrier) Barracudas again, and he said 'it's normal, coach'.
"That shows they are ready," said Kim Swee, swelling with pride.
Malaysia's coach did not want to reveal what exactly he plans to say but did concede that it will be about "pride'.
Ever since the Malaysian team played the opening match against Singapore on Nov 7, they have faced nothing but obstacles from hostility in the stands to Kim Swee's touchline ban for the 1-0 win over Myanmar in the semi-finals.
A tough draw and playing four of their five matches here in afternoon heat, it is a wonder that the players have not already dropped dead of exhaustion.
All this has been enough motivation for the team to reach the final, beating Indonesia 1-0 along the way in the group stage, and Kim Swee's plans for a few more motivational words is just a little bit extra.
"I had wanted to say a few special words to them before the group match against Indonesia but I thought I'll save it for the final.
"The players are motivated enough, they all want to win this badly. But before they step on the pitch tomorrow (today), I'll say to them something that will fire them up even more.
"I can't tell you what it is, you'll know after we win," said Kim Swee, who looked fired-up himself as he spoke to Timesport yesterday.
Today's final will be Malaysia's third game in five days and the toll it has taken on the team is evident.
After the Myanmar match, winger Fandi Othman (hamstring) and strikers Izzaq Faris Ramlan (meniscus tear) and Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim (ankle) joined Wan Zaharulnizam Wan Zakaria in being ruled out of the final.
Irfan Fazail is also struggling to shake off an ankle problem to at least make the bench as Malaysia have just 13 outfield players to select from.
Zubir Azmi could make his first appearance at left-back with Asraruddin Putra Omar being pushed up the left flank while A. Thamil Arasu may replace Syahrul on the right.
"The boys are very tired as you saw in the first half against Myanmar. With the final, we will be playing four matches in eight days. We will need fresh legs tomorrow (today).
"They also had to deal with an unbelievable amount of pressure. Before coming here people were not saying make the semi-finals or final, they were saying come back with the gold medal.
"Given the group that we were in, it is a major achievement just to be in the final. We've taken it one game at a time, and now that we're in the final, that's it. We are here and going for it," added Kim Swee, who will return to the bench today.
Indonesia's attacking threat will be Kim Swee's main focus as Patrich Wanggai and Titus Bonai have scored nine goals between them here.
Malaysia will seek to negate their speed on the flanks and attempt to catch Indonesia, who defeated Vietnam 2-0 on Saturday, by controlling the tempo of the game on the break.
"Patrich, Titus and Okto (Maniani). These are the players to watch out for. Don't forget their captain (Egi Malgiansyah). We need to minimise their pace on the flanks.
"And for that I need fast players of our own. We have already lost four players to injuries but I have an idea who to put in," said Kim Swee.
No matter what happens, Kim Swee is certain his players will give nothing short of their best.
"There is no fear in them. They seem to prefer playing Indonesia than Vietnam in the final. I tested one of them by saying we'd have to travel in (armoured personnel carrier) Barracudas again, and he said 'it's normal, coach'.
"That shows they are ready," said Kim Swee, swelling with pride.
Malaysian team to leave for Kuala Lumpur immediately after SEA Games final
A plane has been chartered to fly the national football team home from Jakarta tonight – immediately after the final against Indonesia.
This is because the team have another assignment on Wednesday – an Asian zone final round London Olympics qualifying match against Syria at the Shah Alam Stadium.
Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek said that the Cabinet had endorsed the special chartered flight for the national team.
“The national players are tired after playing three matches in six days and they need to rest for two days before taking on Syria,” he said.
“The players are expected to leave for KL after the final match at about 11.30pm tomorrow (tonight).”
This is because the team have another assignment on Wednesday – an Asian zone final round London Olympics qualifying match against Syria at the Shah Alam Stadium.
Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek said that the Cabinet had endorsed the special chartered flight for the national team.
“The national players are tired after playing three matches in six days and they need to rest for two days before taking on Syria,” he said.
“The players are expected to leave for KL after the final match at about 11.30pm tomorrow (tonight).”
Indonesian players cautious of Malaysia in final in SEA Games
Indonesian forward Titus Bonai, who struck in his side’s 2-0 semi-final win over Vietnam, said yesterday the hosts will have to be on their guard against a dangerous Malaysia today.
Bonai said the defending champions had already proved they are capable of upsetting Indonesia with a 0-1 win in the group stage.
“The Malaysian team are very strong – we lost to them the other day.
“What we need to do is stay on guard and work tight as a team,” said Bonai.
“If we do that, I’m confident we can win.”
Malaysia scrambled to a 1-0 win over a plucky Myanmar in their semi-final match, also on Saturday, but will be boosted by the knowledge they have already beaten the hosts and silenced the hostile home crowd.
Fellow Papuan Oktavianus Maniani said Indonesia were ready for the final.
“They (Malaysia) are a good strong team with excellent players, so we’re going to do our best and see what the result is,” he said.
Bonai said the defending champions had already proved they are capable of upsetting Indonesia with a 0-1 win in the group stage.
“The Malaysian team are very strong – we lost to them the other day.
“What we need to do is stay on guard and work tight as a team,” said Bonai.
“If we do that, I’m confident we can win.”
Malaysia scrambled to a 1-0 win over a plucky Myanmar in their semi-final match, also on Saturday, but will be boosted by the knowledge they have already beaten the hosts and silenced the hostile home crowd.
Fellow Papuan Oktavianus Maniani said Indonesia were ready for the final.
“They (Malaysia) are a good strong team with excellent players, so we’re going to do our best and see what the result is,” he said.
Malaysian coach not worried over mind games by Indonesia in SEA Games
The local media here is whipping up the frenzy of the Indonesian fans ahead of the football final against Malaysia tonight.
The 1st Times, an Indonesian bilingual daily had on its front page the headline: “Young Garuda ready to tear Malaysia Apart.”
It also said that the football title was more important than becoming overall champions.
It went on to say that the title of overall champions for the Indonesian contingent will become more complete and meaningful if the national team deliver the football gold medal.
Indonesia reached the final after defeating Vietnam 2-0 in the semi-finals while Malaysia edged Myanmar 1-0.
Indonesia, who last won the gold in Manila 20 years ago, are bent on becoming champions for the third time in the Games, having won it in 1987 here, when they beat Malaysia 1-0 in the final.
Defending champions Malaysia are bracing themselves for a torrid reception when they face the hosts in front of 100,000 fanatical fans.
Several security measures have been put in place to avoid any untoward incidents, including confining the Malaysian team’s training sessions to the hotel grounds.
Coach Ong Kim Swee, however, is quite comfortable with the sessions being held on tennis courts and in the open space at the hotel compound.
The players were in good spirits in their final training session yesterday. They were having fun and even threw team physiotherapist Mohd Nasrul Ahmad Tajuddin into the pool.
Kim Swee, however, has warned his players to be wary of provocations by Indonesian fans in a bid to distract them from their game.
“The fans will jeer the team when they troop onto the field and also when the Negaraku is played. I will use reverse psychology and get them worked up to get the desired result in the final,” said Kim Swee.
The 1st Times, an Indonesian bilingual daily had on its front page the headline: “Young Garuda ready to tear Malaysia Apart.”
It also said that the football title was more important than becoming overall champions.
It went on to say that the title of overall champions for the Indonesian contingent will become more complete and meaningful if the national team deliver the football gold medal.
Indonesia reached the final after defeating Vietnam 2-0 in the semi-finals while Malaysia edged Myanmar 1-0.
Indonesia, who last won the gold in Manila 20 years ago, are bent on becoming champions for the third time in the Games, having won it in 1987 here, when they beat Malaysia 1-0 in the final.
Defending champions Malaysia are bracing themselves for a torrid reception when they face the hosts in front of 100,000 fanatical fans.
Several security measures have been put in place to avoid any untoward incidents, including confining the Malaysian team’s training sessions to the hotel grounds.
Coach Ong Kim Swee, however, is quite comfortable with the sessions being held on tennis courts and in the open space at the hotel compound.
The players were in good spirits in their final training session yesterday. They were having fun and even threw team physiotherapist Mohd Nasrul Ahmad Tajuddin into the pool.
Kim Swee, however, has warned his players to be wary of provocations by Indonesian fans in a bid to distract them from their game.
“The fans will jeer the team when they troop onto the field and also when the Negaraku is played. I will use reverse psychology and get them worked up to get the desired result in the final,” said Kim Swee.
Malaysian players to travel to stadium in armoured vehicles for final in SEA Games
The Malaysian Under-23 football team will be ferried to the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Senayan for the final today in armoured vehicles (Barracudas).
Team manager Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said they have requested the organisers to find a better way to transport the team but has yet to get a favourable reply.
“We have asked them to find a better way because it is not good for the sport. This is the third time that a Malaysian team will be travelling either to or from the stadium in an armoured vehicle,” said Hamidin.
In the Suzuki Cup AFF Championships 11 months ago, the national team rode in the Barracudas due to security reasons.
On Thursday, after beating Indonesia 1-0 in the last Group A match, the team were forced to take the Barracudas due to the more than 100,000 hostile fans at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.
Team manager Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said they have requested the organisers to find a better way to transport the team but has yet to get a favourable reply.
“We have asked them to find a better way because it is not good for the sport. This is the third time that a Malaysian team will be travelling either to or from the stadium in an armoured vehicle,” said Hamidin.
In the Suzuki Cup AFF Championships 11 months ago, the national team rode in the Barracudas due to security reasons.
On Thursday, after beating Indonesia 1-0 in the last Group A match, the team were forced to take the Barracudas due to the more than 100,000 hostile fans at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.
Injury-hit Malaysia facing a tough final against Indonesia in SEA Games
Malaysia will be limping into battle against Indonesia in the bitter climax to the epic football campaign of the SEA Games at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Senayan tonight.
The prized football gold will either be Indonesia’s crowning glory or devalue their runaway acclaim as overall champions.
Arch-rivals Malaysia, the defending champions who beat them 1-0 in their group match, stand in their way. The same Malaysians who denied them the Suzuki Cup last year.
But the Malaysian team have been crippled by injuries to four key players. Strikers Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim (ankle) and Izzaq Faris Ramlan (knee) and flankers Wan Zaharulnizam Wan Zakaria and Fandi Othman, both hamstring, have been ruled out of the game.
Midfielder Mohd Irfan Fazail is also a doubtful starter as he is down with a knee injury.
All picked up the injuries in the 1-0 semi-final win over Myanmar on Saturday.
This leaves coach Ong Kim See with a severely depleted squad of 16 players.
“Thank God we still have three outfield players to choose from. Since they are utility players, I can rotate them in various positions,” said coach Kim Swee.
“Ahmad Fakri Saarani, A. Thamil Arasu and Yong Kuong Yong can play on either flanks as replacements for the injured Wan Zaharulnizam and Fandi.”
Kim Swee sees Indonesia’s speedy wingers Titus Bonai and Okto Maniani, and striker Patrich Wanggai as the main threat. He expects the trio to provide a stiff test to the Malaysian defenders, who have done extremely well thus far.
Having defied the odds to reach the final, however, Kim Swee is in high spirits and has pledged to do all he can to guide his men to the gold medal - despite the injury problems and the hostile fans.
“What a ride it has been. Now that we have reached the final, it doesn’t matter how we play - our objective is to return home with the gold medal. I still have some tricks up my sleeve,” said Kim Swee.
With his wings clipped following the injuries to his flankers, Kim Swee will have to work out a strategy to stop Indonesia’s speedy forwards from causing havoc.
“I have made a lot of tough decisions even before coming to Jakarta, including leaving out some key players. Now, the time has come for me to make another difficult decision on the final line-up. I hope things will work out right,” said Kim Swee.
The Malaysians were not at their best on Saturday but still managed to edge Myanmar 1-0 to march into the final.
Victory today will be more meaningful as it is all about pride and sending a strong message to the unsporting Indonesian fans who have been most disrespectful of Malaysians here at the Games.
This young Malaysian team have shown plenty of character and grit. They played with commitment and flair, unfazed by the 100,000 raucous fans in beating Indonesia 1-0 in their Group A match last Thursday.
They have to do it all over again tonight, under even more trying circumstances.
The probable line-up
MALAYSIA: Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Mohd Asraruddin Putra Omar, Mohd Fadhli Shas, Mahalli Jasuli, Mohd Muslim Ahmad. Baddrol Bakhtiar, Ahmad Fakri Saarani, Mohd Irfan Fazail, K. Gurusamy, A. Thamil Arasu, Mhd Nazmi Faiz.
INDONESIA: Kurnia Meiga, Egi Melgiansyah, Octovianus Maniani, Gunawan Dwi Cahyo, Hasim Kipuw, Andik Vermansyah, Diego Michiels, Titus Bonai, Hendro Siswanto, Patrich Wanggai, Lucas Mandowen.
The prized football gold will either be Indonesia’s crowning glory or devalue their runaway acclaim as overall champions.
Arch-rivals Malaysia, the defending champions who beat them 1-0 in their group match, stand in their way. The same Malaysians who denied them the Suzuki Cup last year.
But the Malaysian team have been crippled by injuries to four key players. Strikers Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim (ankle) and Izzaq Faris Ramlan (knee) and flankers Wan Zaharulnizam Wan Zakaria and Fandi Othman, both hamstring, have been ruled out of the game.
Midfielder Mohd Irfan Fazail is also a doubtful starter as he is down with a knee injury.
All picked up the injuries in the 1-0 semi-final win over Myanmar on Saturday.
This leaves coach Ong Kim See with a severely depleted squad of 16 players.
“Thank God we still have three outfield players to choose from. Since they are utility players, I can rotate them in various positions,” said coach Kim Swee.
“Ahmad Fakri Saarani, A. Thamil Arasu and Yong Kuong Yong can play on either flanks as replacements for the injured Wan Zaharulnizam and Fandi.”
Kim Swee sees Indonesia’s speedy wingers Titus Bonai and Okto Maniani, and striker Patrich Wanggai as the main threat. He expects the trio to provide a stiff test to the Malaysian defenders, who have done extremely well thus far.
Having defied the odds to reach the final, however, Kim Swee is in high spirits and has pledged to do all he can to guide his men to the gold medal - despite the injury problems and the hostile fans.
“What a ride it has been. Now that we have reached the final, it doesn’t matter how we play - our objective is to return home with the gold medal. I still have some tricks up my sleeve,” said Kim Swee.
With his wings clipped following the injuries to his flankers, Kim Swee will have to work out a strategy to stop Indonesia’s speedy forwards from causing havoc.
“I have made a lot of tough decisions even before coming to Jakarta, including leaving out some key players. Now, the time has come for me to make another difficult decision on the final line-up. I hope things will work out right,” said Kim Swee.
The Malaysians were not at their best on Saturday but still managed to edge Myanmar 1-0 to march into the final.
Victory today will be more meaningful as it is all about pride and sending a strong message to the unsporting Indonesian fans who have been most disrespectful of Malaysians here at the Games.
This young Malaysian team have shown plenty of character and grit. They played with commitment and flair, unfazed by the 100,000 raucous fans in beating Indonesia 1-0 in their Group A match last Thursday.
They have to do it all over again tonight, under even more trying circumstances.
The probable line-up
MALAYSIA: Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Mohd Asraruddin Putra Omar, Mohd Fadhli Shas, Mahalli Jasuli, Mohd Muslim Ahmad. Baddrol Bakhtiar, Ahmad Fakri Saarani, Mohd Irfan Fazail, K. Gurusamy, A. Thamil Arasu, Mhd Nazmi Faiz.
INDONESIA: Kurnia Meiga, Egi Melgiansyah, Octovianus Maniani, Gunawan Dwi Cahyo, Hasim Kipuw, Andik Vermansyah, Diego Michiels, Titus Bonai, Hendro Siswanto, Patrich Wanggai, Lucas Mandowen.
Malaysians prepared for tense final against Indonesia in SEA Games
The small group of Malaysian supporters at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Senayan tonight could be forgiven if they feel like helpless kids caught in a hurricane.
Some 100 of them will brave 100,000 screaming Indonesian fans to root for Malaysia in the highly-anticipated football final at the 26th SEA Games.
Despite the overwhelming odds, the yellow-shirted Harimau Malaya fans have vowed not to be intimidated by the sea of red and white when they urge the national team on to defend the title it won in Laos two years ago.
Goh Ai Ai, a Malaysian fan living in Jakarta, is one of the handful of faithfuls.
“We may seem like a drop in the ocean, but then again the ocean is made up of single drops. So, every one of us counts,” she said. “We will make our presence felt.”
Lee Hui Seng, a member of the Famemas supporting team, concurred:“We will be there for our boys. We are not afraid to be right smack in the middle of a hostile crowd.”
Telekom's Team Malaysia will also be part of the cheering squad and one of its members, Farhan Mohd Aimullah, said: “Of course, safety is important. I'm quite scared but I think it is my duty to be there.”
Yesterday, chef-de-mission Datuk Naim Mohd held a briefing for the Malaysian supporters.
“It is to brief them on specific security matters,” he said. Besides Famemas and Telekom's Malaysian students in Indonesia will also be at the match.
“We have been given 100 seats,” said Naim. “The hosts have given us assurances on our security. There will be police personnel around the area,” he added.
“The athletes and officials involved in the Games will not attend the final,” said Naim. “But I am getting the others to turn up to support our team. We may be a small group but we will make the most noise to urge them on to victory.”
Such is the tension here that the Malaysian team will be ferried to the stadium in armoured vehicles the Barracudas.
Team manager Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said the Barracudas were “most inconvenient”. He has asked the organisers to find a better way to transport the team.
“This is the third time that a Malaysian team will be travelling either to or from the stadium in an armoured vehicle. It isn't good for the sport,” said Hamidin.
At the Suzuki Cup AFF Championships 11 months ago, the national team rode to the stadium in the Barracudas due to security concerns.
On Thursday, after beating Indonesia 1-0 in the last Group A match, the national Under-23 team were forced to take the Barracudas back to the hotel to escape a hostile crowd.
Some 100 of them will brave 100,000 screaming Indonesian fans to root for Malaysia in the highly-anticipated football final at the 26th SEA Games.
Despite the overwhelming odds, the yellow-shirted Harimau Malaya fans have vowed not to be intimidated by the sea of red and white when they urge the national team on to defend the title it won in Laos two years ago.
Goh Ai Ai, a Malaysian fan living in Jakarta, is one of the handful of faithfuls.
“We may seem like a drop in the ocean, but then again the ocean is made up of single drops. So, every one of us counts,” she said. “We will make our presence felt.”
Lee Hui Seng, a member of the Famemas supporting team, concurred:“We will be there for our boys. We are not afraid to be right smack in the middle of a hostile crowd.”
Telekom's Team Malaysia will also be part of the cheering squad and one of its members, Farhan Mohd Aimullah, said: “Of course, safety is important. I'm quite scared but I think it is my duty to be there.”
Yesterday, chef-de-mission Datuk Naim Mohd held a briefing for the Malaysian supporters.
“It is to brief them on specific security matters,” he said. Besides Famemas and Telekom's Malaysian students in Indonesia will also be at the match.
“We have been given 100 seats,” said Naim. “The hosts have given us assurances on our security. There will be police personnel around the area,” he added.
“The athletes and officials involved in the Games will not attend the final,” said Naim. “But I am getting the others to turn up to support our team. We may be a small group but we will make the most noise to urge them on to victory.”
Such is the tension here that the Malaysian team will be ferried to the stadium in armoured vehicles the Barracudas.
Team manager Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said the Barracudas were “most inconvenient”. He has asked the organisers to find a better way to transport the team.
“This is the third time that a Malaysian team will be travelling either to or from the stadium in an armoured vehicle. It isn't good for the sport,” said Hamidin.
At the Suzuki Cup AFF Championships 11 months ago, the national team rode to the stadium in the Barracudas due to security concerns.
On Thursday, after beating Indonesia 1-0 in the last Group A match, the national Under-23 team were forced to take the Barracudas back to the hotel to escape a hostile crowd.
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