National Under-23 coach (Harimau Muda A) Datuk Ong Kim Swee has called up 11 new faces to beef up the squad that will be participating in the National Premier League (NPL) in Queensland, Australia from March to August, 2014.
Kim Swee said six of them were from the Harimau Muda B squad (National Under-21) and five from the Harimau Muda C (Under-19) squad.
Apart from the 11 players, Kim Swee would also be scouting for a number of players who would be playing in the President’s Cup competition which starts next week.
“Not all will make the final squad but I want to give them ample time to adapt to the National team’s style of the play,” he told Bernama yesterday.
Kim Swee said the squad would take a two-day break for the Chinese New Year celebrations (Friday and Saturday) and resume training on Sunday.
“We do not have much time to prepare as the team will be leaving to Brisbane soon,” he said.
The Harimau Muda A squad lost a number of first choice players due to their age factor, including skipper Mohd Irfan Fazail, defender Mohd Fadhli Mohd Shas, goalkeeper Mohd Izham Tarmizi Roslan and striker Izzaq Faris Ramlan.
Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) Secretary-general Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin had said that the team’s participation in the NPL was part of preparations to equip the squad for the challenges during the 2014 Asian Games.
Showing posts with label Under-23 Team. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Under-23 Team. Show all posts
Sunday, 2 February 2014
FAM gives ultimatum to Troussier to become national team coach
Philippe Troussier has been given until tomorrow to decide about his future with Malaysia and if the Frenchman declines, Ong Kim Swee will handle the national senior team on a caretaker basis for next month's international matches.
The former Japan coach made unrealistic demands in a recent three-day meeting with the FA of Malaysia (FAM) in Kuala Lumpur.
Troussier did not want FAM to subject him to Key Performance Indicators (KPI) and also grant him the liberty to end his contract at any time after serving a year with full compensation.
The national body, however, did not agree to Troussier's terms but the Paris-born promised to look into the offer with his lawyers before making a decision.
"FAM did not officially say 'No' to Troussier, neither did he. The deal is not off. He has returned to Paris to speak to his lawyers and will reply to the national body on Monday (tomorrow)," said a source yesterday.
"FAM hopes Troussier will compromise and accept the offer without added clauses. It is unrealistic for coaches not to have a KPI.
"The national body would have agreed to the standard six-month compensation clause but he wanted full compensation if he leaves after one year.
"However, FAM complied to other demands pertaining the selection of players and the day-to-day operations of the team."
The former Marseille coach, who guided Japan to the 2000 Asian Cup and the last-16 of the 2002 World Cup, was initially approached by FAM through the Japan FA's recommendation.
FAM spoke with Troussier in China last year and met him again in Singapore two months ago.
In the three-day meeting, which ended on Thursday, in KL, Troussier met several FAM officials, including deputy president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah.
If Troussier does not accept the offer, Kim Swee, who signed a two-year extension as national youth coach recently, will handle the senior team in next month's international matches.
Malaysia play the Philippines on March 1 in a friendly before taking on Yemen in an Asian Cup Group D qualifying match, four days later, in Abu Dhabi (neutral venue).
"Kim Swee is our option for next month's matches on a caretaker basis and if FAM does not hire a senior coach soon, the former international will prepare a team for the AFF Suzuki Cup.
"FAM will continue to scout for suitable candidates for the senior team. We have not rejected other applicants," the source added.
However, there could be a problem if FAM decides to install Kim Swee as a permanent senior coach.
The Malacca-born has already signed a new contract to handle the national Under-23 team (Young Tigers A) for the Incheon Asian Games and also oversee FAM's other youth squads -- Tigers B (Under-21), C (Under-19) and D (Under-17).
Saturday, 14 April 2012
Olympic squad to start training for Under-22 Asian Cup
The Harimau Muda A squad is expected to start centralised training for the Under 22 Asian Cup Qualifying Round early next month.
Head coach Ong Kim Swee said has yet to determine the number of players for the tournament due to their involvement in the Singapore League.
"Players eligible for the tournament will be decided after we finish training at end May.
"I also plan to use several club players to strengthen our challenge," he said when contacted by Bernama Friday.
Malaysia which will be represented by Harimau Muda have been drawn in Group G with South Korea, Vietnam, Taiwan, Philippines and Myanmar as group host.
Head coach Ong Kim Swee said has yet to determine the number of players for the tournament due to their involvement in the Singapore League.
"Players eligible for the tournament will be decided after we finish training at end May.
"I also plan to use several club players to strengthen our challenge," he said when contacted by Bernama Friday.
Malaysia which will be represented by Harimau Muda have been drawn in Group G with South Korea, Vietnam, Taiwan, Philippines and Myanmar as group host.
Monday, 2 April 2012
Olympic squad move into top place in Singapore league
The Harimau Muda continued their fine form in the Singapore League (S-League) by edging Singapore Armed Forces (SAFFC) 2-1 at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium last night.
Striker Ahmad Hazwan Bakri was the hero for the Malaysian Under-23 side, scoring the winner in the 88th minute.
Winger Wan Zack Haikal Wan Noor gave Harimau the lead in the 70th minute but SAFFC’s Japanese striker Shimpei Sakurada equalised in the 78th minute.
The win enabled the Harimau Muda to share the lead in the S-League with DPMM Brunei.
Both teams have 14 points from six matches but the Brunei club lead the standings on more goals scored.
The Harimau Muda’s next match is against Home United at the Bishan Stadium on Sunday.
In another match, Young Lions earned their first point of the season after holding Balestier Khalsa 1-1 at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
Striker Ahmad Hazwan Bakri was the hero for the Malaysian Under-23 side, scoring the winner in the 88th minute.
Winger Wan Zack Haikal Wan Noor gave Harimau the lead in the 70th minute but SAFFC’s Japanese striker Shimpei Sakurada equalised in the 78th minute.
The win enabled the Harimau Muda to share the lead in the S-League with DPMM Brunei.
Both teams have 14 points from six matches but the Brunei club lead the standings on more goals scored.
The Harimau Muda’s next match is against Home United at the Bishan Stadium on Sunday.
In another match, Young Lions earned their first point of the season after holding Balestier Khalsa 1-1 at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
Sunday, 1 April 2012
Olympic squad ready for tough match against Singapore Armed Forces in Singapore league
Harimau Muda coach Ong Kim Swee is wary of the threat from the Singapore Armed Forces FC (SAFFC) in their S-League match at the Choa Chu Kang stadium tonight.
The Harimau Muda are third in the standings with 11 points from five matches. Kim Swee’s boys have a game in hand and are still unbeaten in the 13-team league but SAFFC won’t be easy opponents.
The soldiers will be looking to keep up the momentum after beating Tanjong Pagar United 3-1 at Queenstown Stadium on March 23.
“I watched the SAFFC-Tanjong Pagar United match. They are a well balanced side and have several Singapore national players in the team,” said Kim Swee.
“SAFFC are a harder team compared to our previous opponents Young Lions, Brunei DPMM, Albirex Niigata, Tanjong Pagar and Gombak United.
“But I believe it will be a good opportunity to gauge how my players cope at this level.”
The SAFFC, who are starting to gel as a team, naturalised Bah Mamadou and Daniel Bennett marshalling the backline, while Japanese midfielder Tatsuro Inui and striker Mislav Karoglan of Bosnia and Hezergovina are among the players that could end Harimau Muda’s unbeaten record.
Kim Swee will be without midfielder Mohd Irfan Fazail and defender Mohd Affize Faisal Mamat and will be replaced by Shahrul Saad and Mohd Azzizan Nordin.
“We will try to keep our unbeaten record intact and I’m confident we can get a good result if the players work hard and follow instructions,” said Kim Swee.
“We are better rested heading to this match but we are without our regulars Irfan, Affize, Mahali Jasuli and Wan Zaharulnizam Zakaria so it cancels out our advantage. I hope the reserve players, who get to play in this match, can prove themselves.”
The Harimau Muda are third in the standings with 11 points from five matches. Kim Swee’s boys have a game in hand and are still unbeaten in the 13-team league but SAFFC won’t be easy opponents.
The soldiers will be looking to keep up the momentum after beating Tanjong Pagar United 3-1 at Queenstown Stadium on March 23.
“I watched the SAFFC-Tanjong Pagar United match. They are a well balanced side and have several Singapore national players in the team,” said Kim Swee.
“SAFFC are a harder team compared to our previous opponents Young Lions, Brunei DPMM, Albirex Niigata, Tanjong Pagar and Gombak United.
“But I believe it will be a good opportunity to gauge how my players cope at this level.”
The SAFFC, who are starting to gel as a team, naturalised Bah Mamadou and Daniel Bennett marshalling the backline, while Japanese midfielder Tatsuro Inui and striker Mislav Karoglan of Bosnia and Hezergovina are among the players that could end Harimau Muda’s unbeaten record.
Kim Swee will be without midfielder Mohd Irfan Fazail and defender Mohd Affize Faisal Mamat and will be replaced by Shahrul Saad and Mohd Azzizan Nordin.
“We will try to keep our unbeaten record intact and I’m confident we can get a good result if the players work hard and follow instructions,” said Kim Swee.
“We are better rested heading to this match but we are without our regulars Irfan, Affize, Mahali Jasuli and Wan Zaharulnizam Zakaria so it cancels out our advantage. I hope the reserve players, who get to play in this match, can prove themselves.”
Wednesday, 28 March 2012
FAM general secretary found not guilty of critising the Olympic squad
The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) Disciplinary Committee today freed FAM general secretary Datuk Azzuddin Ahmad from allegations of openly critising the national Olympic squad's performance through the media recently.
Chairman Datuk Taufik Abdul Razak said a study of video recordings and news reports found that Azzudin was not guilty and only issued a general statement.
"The committee is satisfied that the statement made by Azzuddin did not contradict with article 4.5.8 of 2011 FAM Code of Ethics in which the statement did not insult the national Olympic squad and FAM as the main football body in the country.
Chairman Datuk Taufik Abdul Razak said a study of video recordings and news reports found that Azzudin was not guilty and only issued a general statement.
"The committee is satisfied that the statement made by Azzuddin did not contradict with article 4.5.8 of 2011 FAM Code of Ethics in which the statement did not insult the national Olympic squad and FAM as the main football body in the country.
Monday, 19 March 2012
Olympic squad draw with Albirex Niigata in Singapore league
The Harimau Muda boys failed to keep up their momentum in the Singapore League (S-League) when they were held to a goalless draw by Albirex Niigata FC at the Yishun Stadium yesterday.
The national Under-23 side, who had made a bright start by winning their opening two matches against Gombak United (2-0) and Tanjong Pagar United FC (3-0), had to be content with a point in their third match.
Head coach Ong Kim Swee said the boys were a spent force and barely had enough rest to recover from their last group match against Syria in the Asian Zone Olympic qualifiers, which they lost 0-3 to Jordan on Wednesday.
“It was difficult for my boys to cope with today’s match. We had barely 48 hours of rest due to the time zone difference travelling from Jordan.
“Despite the jet-lag, the boys gave everything to earn a point. The good thing is that we have not conceded a goal in three matches,” said Kim Swee, whose boys will face Brunei DPMM FC next at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Thursday.
The Harimau Muda, with seven points, are fifth in the 13-team league.
The national Under-23 side, who had made a bright start by winning their opening two matches against Gombak United (2-0) and Tanjong Pagar United FC (3-0), had to be content with a point in their third match.
Head coach Ong Kim Swee said the boys were a spent force and barely had enough rest to recover from their last group match against Syria in the Asian Zone Olympic qualifiers, which they lost 0-3 to Jordan on Wednesday.
“It was difficult for my boys to cope with today’s match. We had barely 48 hours of rest due to the time zone difference travelling from Jordan.
“Despite the jet-lag, the boys gave everything to earn a point. The good thing is that we have not conceded a goal in three matches,” said Kim Swee, whose boys will face Brunei DPMM FC next at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Thursday.
The Harimau Muda, with seven points, are fifth in the 13-team league.
Thursday, 15 March 2012
Malaysia complete Olympic qualiferis losing all matches
Malaysia wrapped up their dismal Olympic football qualifying campaign without a single point.
National Under-23 coach Ong Kim Swee’s boys fell to their sixth consecutive defeat in the Asian Zone Group C qualifying tournament going down 3-0 to Syria at the King Abdullah International Stadium in Jordan last night.
Striker Mardek Mardkian scored a brace (48th and 68th) before Omar Al Suma (80th) added the third.
In earlier matches, Malaysia lost by identical 2-0 margins to Japan and Syria before going down to Bahrain 3-2 and 2-1. On Feb 22, Malaysia suffered their biggest loss to fancied Japan 4-0 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
Asia has 3.5 slots for the 2012 London Olympics. The three group winners will win automatic slots while the runners-up will compete in a playoff, with the winner playing an African representative for the last ticket to the Games.
National Under-23 coach Ong Kim Swee’s boys fell to their sixth consecutive defeat in the Asian Zone Group C qualifying tournament going down 3-0 to Syria at the King Abdullah International Stadium in Jordan last night.
Striker Mardek Mardkian scored a brace (48th and 68th) before Omar Al Suma (80th) added the third.
In earlier matches, Malaysia lost by identical 2-0 margins to Japan and Syria before going down to Bahrain 3-2 and 2-1. On Feb 22, Malaysia suffered their biggest loss to fancied Japan 4-0 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
Asia has 3.5 slots for the 2012 London Olympics. The three group winners will win automatic slots while the runners-up will compete in a playoff, with the winner playing an African representative for the last ticket to the Games.
Malaysia beaten by Syria in Olympic qualifier
The ongoing civil war in Syria failed to dampen the spirit of their Olympic squad who beat the Malaysian Olympic squad 3-0 in an Asia Zone Group C Olympic Qualifying match at the King Abdullah International Stadium in Amman, Jordan, Wednesday.
In the Asia Zone Olympic Qualifier, Malaysia were drawn in Group C with Japan, Syria and Bahrain.
With the latest result, Malaysia had lost all its home and away matches to Japan, Bahrain and Syria.
The last time Malaysia qualified for the Olympics was in 1980 (Moscow Olympics) but did not play due to an US-led boycott of the games as a protest against Russia's invasion of Afghanistan.
In the Asia Zone Olympic Qualifier, Malaysia were drawn in Group C with Japan, Syria and Bahrain.
With the latest result, Malaysia had lost all its home and away matches to Japan, Bahrain and Syria.
The last time Malaysia qualified for the Olympics was in 1980 (Moscow Olympics) but did not play due to an US-led boycott of the games as a protest against Russia's invasion of Afghanistan.
Wednesday, 14 March 2012
Olympic squad to play for pride against Syria in Olympic qualifier
The national Olympic squad will have nothing to play for except for pride when they complete their Group C Asian Zone qualifying fixture against Syria in Amman, Jordan today.
The team are bottom of the table after failing to earn points from their previous five matches and even if they beat Syria, their position in the group will not change.
Syria and Bahrain are in a neck-and-neck battle for the play-off spot behind group leaders Japan, who have qualified for the London Olympics, with nine points each.
The Syrians will definitely be firing on all cylinders for goals and Malaysia must be wary of this.
Coach Ong Kim Swee left out several regulars in favour of new faces as he is using the match to test players for the inaugural AFC Under-22 Qualifiers on June 23.
"I did not pick some of them as they will not be eligible for the Under-22 Qualifiers. My priority is to gauge the performance of the younger batch of players in this match," said Kim Swee yesterday.
"We did our best in the Olympic Qualifiers but our best wasn't enough to make an impression. It proves that we are not quite there yet but I hope my players have gained from the experience."
Among the new faces in the team are Sarawak striker Ashri Chuchu and Sabah midfielder Rozaimi Abdul Rahman.
The squad: Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Muhammad Zubir Mohd Azmi, Ahmad Shakir Ali, Rozaimi Abdul Rahman, Ashri Chu Chu, Ahmad Fakri Saarani, Mohd Azriq Nasrulhaq Badrul Hisham, Shahrul Mohd Saad, Mohd Affizie Faisal Mamat, Mohammad Amer Saidin, Mohd Fandi Othman, Mohd Irfan Fazail, Mohd Izham Tarmizi Roslan, Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim, Muhammad Nazmi Faiz Mansur, Mohd Fadhli Mohd Shas, Mohd Azzizan Nordin, D. Saarvindran.
The team are bottom of the table after failing to earn points from their previous five matches and even if they beat Syria, their position in the group will not change.
Syria and Bahrain are in a neck-and-neck battle for the play-off spot behind group leaders Japan, who have qualified for the London Olympics, with nine points each.
The Syrians will definitely be firing on all cylinders for goals and Malaysia must be wary of this.
Coach Ong Kim Swee left out several regulars in favour of new faces as he is using the match to test players for the inaugural AFC Under-22 Qualifiers on June 23.
"I did not pick some of them as they will not be eligible for the Under-22 Qualifiers. My priority is to gauge the performance of the younger batch of players in this match," said Kim Swee yesterday.
"We did our best in the Olympic Qualifiers but our best wasn't enough to make an impression. It proves that we are not quite there yet but I hope my players have gained from the experience."
Among the new faces in the team are Sarawak striker Ashri Chuchu and Sabah midfielder Rozaimi Abdul Rahman.
The squad: Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Muhammad Zubir Mohd Azmi, Ahmad Shakir Ali, Rozaimi Abdul Rahman, Ashri Chu Chu, Ahmad Fakri Saarani, Mohd Azriq Nasrulhaq Badrul Hisham, Shahrul Mohd Saad, Mohd Affizie Faisal Mamat, Mohammad Amer Saidin, Mohd Fandi Othman, Mohd Irfan Fazail, Mohd Izham Tarmizi Roslan, Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim, Muhammad Nazmi Faiz Mansur, Mohd Fadhli Mohd Shas, Mohd Azzizan Nordin, D. Saarvindran.
Tuesday, 13 March 2012
Coach Ong Kim Swee to test out new players against Syria in Olympic qualifier
National Under-23 coach Ong Kim Swee will use the final Asian Zone Group C Olympic qualifying match against Syria in Jordan tomorrow as a stepping stone for the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Under-22 Asian Cup qualifier.
The team’s Olympic dream has long ended after they failed to collect a single point from five matches, having lost by identical 2-0 margins to Japan and Syria and 3-2 to Bahrain.
In Manama on Feb 5, Malaysia’s hopes of even qualifying for the playoffs hit the skids after they lost 2-1 to Bahrain. This was followed by a 4-0 routing by Japan at Bukit Jalil National Stadium on Feb 22.
No wonder Kim Swee wants to use the match against Syria to start rebuilding his team for the inaugural AFC Under-22 Asian Cup qualifiers, scheduled to kick off on June 23.
Kim Swee has opted for several new faces in his final 18 squad for the trip to Amman – including Harimau Muda A forward D. Saarvindran, Sarawak striker Ashri Chuchu and Sabah midfielder Rozaimi Abdul Rahman – in a bid to expand the pool of players and to expose them to higher levels of competition.
Midfielder Gary Steven Robbat and striker A. Thamil Arasu have been dropped from the trip with groin and toe injuries. The others players left behind are goalkeeper Farhan Abu Bakar, Nazirul Naim Che Hashim, Izuan Salahuddin and Mohd Ferris Danial Mat Nasir.
The team’s Olympic dream has long ended after they failed to collect a single point from five matches, having lost by identical 2-0 margins to Japan and Syria and 3-2 to Bahrain.
In Manama on Feb 5, Malaysia’s hopes of even qualifying for the playoffs hit the skids after they lost 2-1 to Bahrain. This was followed by a 4-0 routing by Japan at Bukit Jalil National Stadium on Feb 22.
No wonder Kim Swee wants to use the match against Syria to start rebuilding his team for the inaugural AFC Under-22 Asian Cup qualifiers, scheduled to kick off on June 23.
Kim Swee has opted for several new faces in his final 18 squad for the trip to Amman – including Harimau Muda A forward D. Saarvindran, Sarawak striker Ashri Chuchu and Sabah midfielder Rozaimi Abdul Rahman – in a bid to expand the pool of players and to expose them to higher levels of competition.
Midfielder Gary Steven Robbat and striker A. Thamil Arasu have been dropped from the trip with groin and toe injuries. The others players left behind are goalkeeper Farhan Abu Bakar, Nazirul Naim Che Hashim, Izuan Salahuddin and Mohd Ferris Danial Mat Nasir.
Monday, 12 March 2012
Olympic squad coach calls up Sabah and Sarawak youngsters for Olympic qualifier
Two youngsters from Sabah and Sarawak are set to make their international debut as national youth coach Ong Kim Swee rang the changes for Malaysia's final Olympic qualifier against Syria in Amman, Jordan on Wednesday.
With Malaysia's qualifying chances long gone, Kim Swee has taken the opportunity to blood new players in the last two games against Bahrain and Japan and will continue that tact against the Syrians, who need to win to pip Japan to the automatic slot to London from Group C.
Kim Swee said he intends to use several young players against Syria including Sabah forward Rozaimi Abdul Rahman, Sarawak winger Ashri Chu Chu and Young Tigers A goalkeeper Izham Tarmizi Roslan as preparation for the AFC Under-22 Championship qualifiers in June.
"We have a few players out injured and one suspended so it will give me the chance to test several others. I may field Izham though I still want to take Khairul Fahmi (Che Mat) with us.
"They still need time to form an understanding with the regular players in the team but I've seen positive signs in the new players and this augurs well for the AFC Under-22 qualifiers," said Kim Swee after watching his Olympic side beat Armed Forces 4-2 in a friendly match at Wisma FAM on Saturday.
Injuries have ruled out midfielder Gary Steven Robbat and striker A. Thamil Arasu while winger Wan Zack Haikal Wan Nor is suspended. Other mainstays of the Olympic team including Muslim Ahmad and K. Gurusamy have been left out as they are not eligible for the AFC Under-22 tournament.
Instead, Rozaimi earned his call up after impressing by scoring twice for Sabah in the Super League while Ashri, 21, bagged nine goals in Sarawak's promotion campaign last year and has scored once in the Super League this year.
Malaysia have lost all five of their third round matches in Group C and suffered a 2-0 defeat to Syria in Bukit Jalil on Nov 23, just two days after winning Sea Games gold in Jakarta.
In Friday's friendly, D. Saarvindran scored twice in the second half after Fandi Othman's penalty and a fine strike by Azrif Nasrulhaq Badrul Hisham gave the Olympic team a 2-1 lead.
Aidil Zaquan Radzak, with a deflected free-kick, and A. Varathan were on target for Premier League leaders Forces.
With Malaysia's qualifying chances long gone, Kim Swee has taken the opportunity to blood new players in the last two games against Bahrain and Japan and will continue that tact against the Syrians, who need to win to pip Japan to the automatic slot to London from Group C.
Kim Swee said he intends to use several young players against Syria including Sabah forward Rozaimi Abdul Rahman, Sarawak winger Ashri Chu Chu and Young Tigers A goalkeeper Izham Tarmizi Roslan as preparation for the AFC Under-22 Championship qualifiers in June.
"We have a few players out injured and one suspended so it will give me the chance to test several others. I may field Izham though I still want to take Khairul Fahmi (Che Mat) with us.
"They still need time to form an understanding with the regular players in the team but I've seen positive signs in the new players and this augurs well for the AFC Under-22 qualifiers," said Kim Swee after watching his Olympic side beat Armed Forces 4-2 in a friendly match at Wisma FAM on Saturday.
Injuries have ruled out midfielder Gary Steven Robbat and striker A. Thamil Arasu while winger Wan Zack Haikal Wan Nor is suspended. Other mainstays of the Olympic team including Muslim Ahmad and K. Gurusamy have been left out as they are not eligible for the AFC Under-22 tournament.
Instead, Rozaimi earned his call up after impressing by scoring twice for Sabah in the Super League while Ashri, 21, bagged nine goals in Sarawak's promotion campaign last year and has scored once in the Super League this year.
Malaysia have lost all five of their third round matches in Group C and suffered a 2-0 defeat to Syria in Bukit Jalil on Nov 23, just two days after winning Sea Games gold in Jakarta.
In Friday's friendly, D. Saarvindran scored twice in the second half after Fandi Othman's penalty and a fine strike by Azrif Nasrulhaq Badrul Hisham gave the Olympic team a 2-1 lead.
Aidil Zaquan Radzak, with a deflected free-kick, and A. Varathan were on target for Premier League leaders Forces.
Sunday, 4 March 2012
Olympic squad enjoying campaign in Singapore league
Young Tigers A have laid down a marker to become one of the early pacesetters in the S-League but coach Ong Kim Swee has cautioned against getting carried away with their bright start.
The Malaysian youth side bounced back from a humbling 4-0 loss to Japan in an Olympic qualifier to rout Tanjong Pagar United 3-0 at the Yishun Stadium on Friday, after having started the season with a 2-0 success over Gombak United.
The Tigers are third in the standings with six points but the March 18 top-of-the-table clash against Japanese club Albirex Niigata will be a real test of the team's ability.
"It's still too early to judge after two games but we've put down a mark there. The next game against Albirex, who are the leaders having played a game more, will be a real good test for the boys," said Kim Swee after the team's return to Kuala Lumpur yesterday.
Kim Swee took delight from his side's two clean sheets so far as defenders Fadhli Shas and Amer Saidin begin to show a much better understanding.
"After two games, I'm happy that we have not conceded. That is very important for the confidence although no team can go very long without letting a goal in," added Kim Swee, who used the game as preparation for the Olympic qualifier against Syria on March 14 in Amman, Jordan.
The Malaysian youth side bounced back from a humbling 4-0 loss to Japan in an Olympic qualifier to rout Tanjong Pagar United 3-0 at the Yishun Stadium on Friday, after having started the season with a 2-0 success over Gombak United.
The Tigers are third in the standings with six points but the March 18 top-of-the-table clash against Japanese club Albirex Niigata will be a real test of the team's ability.
"It's still too early to judge after two games but we've put down a mark there. The next game against Albirex, who are the leaders having played a game more, will be a real good test for the boys," said Kim Swee after the team's return to Kuala Lumpur yesterday.
Kim Swee took delight from his side's two clean sheets so far as defenders Fadhli Shas and Amer Saidin begin to show a much better understanding.
"After two games, I'm happy that we have not conceded. That is very important for the confidence although no team can go very long without letting a goal in," added Kim Swee, who used the game as preparation for the Olympic qualifier against Syria on March 14 in Amman, Jordan.
Olympic team continue winning run in Singapore league
Harimau Muda coach Ong Kim Swee heaped praises on his boys after they beat Tanjong Pagar United FC 3-0 in their second Singapore League (S-League) match at the Yishun Stadium on Friday.
The team’s goals were scored by Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim in the 14th minute, Gary Steven Robbat (45th) and A. Thamil Arasu (94th, penalty).
It has been easy for Kim Swee’s boys so far in S-League as they clinched their second win in as many matches but their next fixtures might prove to be a potential banana skin for the national Under-23 squad.
The team take on Syria in their final Asian Zone Group C Olympic qualifying match on March 14 and then S-League champions Albirex Niigata four days later on March 18.
They are scheduled to leave for Jordan to play Syria on March 11 and return to Malaysia on March 15 leaving them with only three days to prepare for their top of the table clash against Albirex Niigata.
“We have a tricky situation with our fixtures and I’m a bit concerned with the team’s fitness and injury risk.
“I can’t control situations regarding injuries and fatigue. I will formulate some training programme for the rest of the S-League squad not down for the Olympic qualifier.”
Commenting on side’s performance against Tanjong Pagar, Kim Swee said his players have shown maturity and learnt from playing in the Olympic qualifiers.
Malaysia have lost all five qualification matches in Group C – Japan (2-0, 4-0), Syria (2-0) and Bahrain (2-3, 1-2) but the experience have made them wiser.
“The players put on a good display to bounce back from the 4-0 defeat to Japan in their Asian Zone Group C Olympic qualifying match last month,” said Kim Swee.
“My boys remained calm and stayed positive despite being given a hard time by our opponent especially in the second half,” said Kim Swee.
“When they have been exposed to playing at high intensity against a world class team like Japan, they becoming more composed and cool under pressure.”
The team’s goals were scored by Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim in the 14th minute, Gary Steven Robbat (45th) and A. Thamil Arasu (94th, penalty).
It has been easy for Kim Swee’s boys so far in S-League as they clinched their second win in as many matches but their next fixtures might prove to be a potential banana skin for the national Under-23 squad.
The team take on Syria in their final Asian Zone Group C Olympic qualifying match on March 14 and then S-League champions Albirex Niigata four days later on March 18.
They are scheduled to leave for Jordan to play Syria on March 11 and return to Malaysia on March 15 leaving them with only three days to prepare for their top of the table clash against Albirex Niigata.
“We have a tricky situation with our fixtures and I’m a bit concerned with the team’s fitness and injury risk.
“I can’t control situations regarding injuries and fatigue. I will formulate some training programme for the rest of the S-League squad not down for the Olympic qualifier.”
Commenting on side’s performance against Tanjong Pagar, Kim Swee said his players have shown maturity and learnt from playing in the Olympic qualifiers.
Malaysia have lost all five qualification matches in Group C – Japan (2-0, 4-0), Syria (2-0) and Bahrain (2-3, 1-2) but the experience have made them wiser.
“The players put on a good display to bounce back from the 4-0 defeat to Japan in their Asian Zone Group C Olympic qualifying match last month,” said Kim Swee.
“My boys remained calm and stayed positive despite being given a hard time by our opponent especially in the second half,” said Kim Swee.
“When they have been exposed to playing at high intensity against a world class team like Japan, they becoming more composed and cool under pressure.”
Friday, 2 March 2012
Malaysia to play Syria in Jordan for Olympic qualifier
Twenty-four players, 17 of them from the Harimau Muda A team, have been called up for centralised training in preparation for the Asian Zone Group C Olympic qualifying match against Syria on March 14.
The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) said in a statement that the players would report to coach Ong Kim Swee at Wisma FAM in Kelana Jaya and would train from Wednesday to Sunday.
Malaysia would play Syria on a neutral venue, in Jordan, and the match is just to complete the schedule since the national team has lost all matches in the qualifying round thus far.
Group C comprises Malaysia, Syria, Bahrain and Japan and the national team is at the bottom of the group without any point. The team which heads the group will advance to the next round.
The Malaysian squad comprises Khairul Fahmi Che Mat (Kelantan), Mohd Zubir Mohd Azmi (Terengganu), Ahmad Shakir Ali (Negeri Sembilan), Rozaimi Abd Rahman (Sabah), Ashri Chu Chu (Sarawak), Ahmad Fakri Saarani (Felda United), Mohd Azrif Nasrulhaq Badrul Hisham (Selangor PKNS), Gary Stevan Robbat, Shahrul Mohd Saad, Mohd Affize Faisal, Mohd Farhan Abu Bakar, Mohamad Amer Saidin, Mohd Fandi Othman, Mohd Irfan Fazail, Mohd Izham Tarmizi Roslan, Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim, Nazirul Naim Che Hashim, Muhammad Nazmi Faiz Mansor, Muhammad Izuan Mohd Salahuddin, A. Thamil Arasu, Mohamad Fadhli Mohd Shas, Mohd Ferris Danial Mat Nasir, Mohd Azzizan Nordin, D. Saarvindran (Harimau Muda A).
The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) said in a statement that the players would report to coach Ong Kim Swee at Wisma FAM in Kelana Jaya and would train from Wednesday to Sunday.
Malaysia would play Syria on a neutral venue, in Jordan, and the match is just to complete the schedule since the national team has lost all matches in the qualifying round thus far.
Group C comprises Malaysia, Syria, Bahrain and Japan and the national team is at the bottom of the group without any point. The team which heads the group will advance to the next round.
The Malaysian squad comprises Khairul Fahmi Che Mat (Kelantan), Mohd Zubir Mohd Azmi (Terengganu), Ahmad Shakir Ali (Negeri Sembilan), Rozaimi Abd Rahman (Sabah), Ashri Chu Chu (Sarawak), Ahmad Fakri Saarani (Felda United), Mohd Azrif Nasrulhaq Badrul Hisham (Selangor PKNS), Gary Stevan Robbat, Shahrul Mohd Saad, Mohd Affize Faisal, Mohd Farhan Abu Bakar, Mohamad Amer Saidin, Mohd Fandi Othman, Mohd Irfan Fazail, Mohd Izham Tarmizi Roslan, Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim, Nazirul Naim Che Hashim, Muhammad Nazmi Faiz Mansor, Muhammad Izuan Mohd Salahuddin, A. Thamil Arasu, Mohamad Fadhli Mohd Shas, Mohd Ferris Danial Mat Nasir, Mohd Azzizan Nordin, D. Saarvindran (Harimau Muda A).
Saturday, 25 February 2012
SEA Games squad get award for winning gold medal
The Sea Games winning Under-23 football squad have been picked as the SAM-100Plus "Out-Do Yourself' award winners for 2011 by the Sportswriters Association of Malaysia (SAM).
National Under-23 coach Ong Kim Swee and his boys beat the odds to retain the gold medal, which Malaysia won in Laos in 2009.
"It is a great honour for the team to receive this award. We had to get past Thailand and Indonesia before we were crowned champions," said Kim Swee.
The highlight of tomorrow's ceremony will be the crowning of the "Athlete of the Year 2011" award.
Among those nominated are badminton star Lee Chong Wei and squash world champion Nicol David.
National Under-23 coach Ong Kim Swee and his boys beat the odds to retain the gold medal, which Malaysia won in Laos in 2009.
"It is a great honour for the team to receive this award. We had to get past Thailand and Indonesia before we were crowned champions," said Kim Swee.
The highlight of tomorrow's ceremony will be the crowning of the "Athlete of the Year 2011" award.
Among those nominated are badminton star Lee Chong Wei and squash world champion Nicol David.
Friday, 24 February 2012
Olympic squad to prepare for Asian Under-22 Championship qualifiers
With an eye on the Asian Under-22 Championship qualifiers in June, national youth coach Ong Kim Swee opted for exposure over experience in the 4-0 Olympic qualifying defeat to Japan at Bukit Jalil on Wednesday.
Eight players in the first XI of the Asian zone third round Group C match at the National Stadium are eligible for the new continental age-group championship where Malaysia have been drawn with South Korea, Vietnam, Myanmar, Philippines and Taiwan in Group G.
Kim Swee relegated defender Muslim Ahmad to the bench and restored Fadhli Shas to play alongside Amer Saidin while Irfan Fazail and Nazmi Faiz Mansor patrolled the midfield in the absence of the injured K. Gurusamy and the benched Ahmad Fakri Saarani.
Along with starters Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Mahalli Jasuli and Fandi Othman, Muslim, Gurusamy and Fakri are all aged 23 and are ineligible for the Under-22 qualifiers.
"Before the game, we knew we were not going to qualify (for the Olympics) and we thought this was the best moment to test some of our players.
"Out of the 11, eight players can still play in the Under-22 Championship qualifiers. It was a good time to learn where we stand and for me, I think the players have learned a lot," said Kim Swee after the match.
Japan, who scored through Hiroki Sakai (35th), Yuya Osako (45th), Genki Haraguchi (55th) and Manabu Saito (60th), certainly gave Malaysia the run-around with their decisive passing and clinical finishing.
Malaysia were bereft of ideas going forward although pint-sized Nazmi held up well against bigger opponents and was the source of Malaysia's only gilt-edged chance when he played A. Thamil Arasu through on goal.
Defeat left Malaysia anchored to the bottom of Group C with just one match against Syria in Jordan remaining on March 14 while Japan need just a draw against Bahrain in Tokyo to qualify for the London Olympics.
Eight players in the first XI of the Asian zone third round Group C match at the National Stadium are eligible for the new continental age-group championship where Malaysia have been drawn with South Korea, Vietnam, Myanmar, Philippines and Taiwan in Group G.
Kim Swee relegated defender Muslim Ahmad to the bench and restored Fadhli Shas to play alongside Amer Saidin while Irfan Fazail and Nazmi Faiz Mansor patrolled the midfield in the absence of the injured K. Gurusamy and the benched Ahmad Fakri Saarani.
Along with starters Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Mahalli Jasuli and Fandi Othman, Muslim, Gurusamy and Fakri are all aged 23 and are ineligible for the Under-22 qualifiers.
"Before the game, we knew we were not going to qualify (for the Olympics) and we thought this was the best moment to test some of our players.
"Out of the 11, eight players can still play in the Under-22 Championship qualifiers. It was a good time to learn where we stand and for me, I think the players have learned a lot," said Kim Swee after the match.
Japan, who scored through Hiroki Sakai (35th), Yuya Osako (45th), Genki Haraguchi (55th) and Manabu Saito (60th), certainly gave Malaysia the run-around with their decisive passing and clinical finishing.
Malaysia were bereft of ideas going forward although pint-sized Nazmi held up well against bigger opponents and was the source of Malaysia's only gilt-edged chance when he played A. Thamil Arasu through on goal.
Defeat left Malaysia anchored to the bottom of Group C with just one match against Syria in Jordan remaining on March 14 while Japan need just a draw against Bahrain in Tokyo to qualify for the London Olympics.
Coach Ong Kim Swee looking to future after failure in Olympic qualifiers
National Under-23 coach Ong Kim Swee’s post-match press conference summed up Malaysia’s 4-0 defeat by Japan in their Asian Group C Olympic qualifying match at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
The match was a dead rubber as Malaysia had suffered four straight defeats. They had earlier gone down by identical 2-0 margins to Japan and Syria, and 3-2 to Bahrain.
In Manama on Feb 5, Malaysia’s hopes of qualifying even for the playoffs hit the skids after losing 2-1 to Bahrain.
It was hardly an even contest as Malaysia were outclassed by Japan in every department in the white-wash on Wednesday night as Kim Swee opted to not “park the bus” in front of goal.
The ruthless Young Samurais completed their mission of winning and increasing their goal difference with goals from Hiroki Sakai (36th), Yuya Osako (45th), Genki Haraguchi (55th) and Manabu Saito (60th).
The win enabled them to regain top spot in Group C and their qualification for the London Olympics is practically sealed with Syria’s 2-1 loss to Bahrain.
Kim Swee conceded there’s a big gap between Malaysia and Asian giants Japan.
“We received a good lesson of what it takes to achieve their level. It’s what separates us from a good team,” said Kim Swee.
“We have to accept that we lost to a better side. Everyone can see that we have plenty of work to do.”
Despite the thrashing, which is also the biggest ever defeat the team suffered under Kim Swee who took over the reigns of the team in 2009, there is hope for the team.
The experience will be vital as the team prepare for the inaugural Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Under-22 Asian Cup qualifiers scheduled to kick off on June 23.
“We have to look at the future now. I believe the players would have learnt their lesson and will get better as they mature,” said Kim Swee.
The match was a dead rubber as Malaysia had suffered four straight defeats. They had earlier gone down by identical 2-0 margins to Japan and Syria, and 3-2 to Bahrain.
In Manama on Feb 5, Malaysia’s hopes of qualifying even for the playoffs hit the skids after losing 2-1 to Bahrain.
It was hardly an even contest as Malaysia were outclassed by Japan in every department in the white-wash on Wednesday night as Kim Swee opted to not “park the bus” in front of goal.
The ruthless Young Samurais completed their mission of winning and increasing their goal difference with goals from Hiroki Sakai (36th), Yuya Osako (45th), Genki Haraguchi (55th) and Manabu Saito (60th).
The win enabled them to regain top spot in Group C and their qualification for the London Olympics is practically sealed with Syria’s 2-1 loss to Bahrain.
Kim Swee conceded there’s a big gap between Malaysia and Asian giants Japan.
“We received a good lesson of what it takes to achieve their level. It’s what separates us from a good team,” said Kim Swee.
“We have to accept that we lost to a better side. Everyone can see that we have plenty of work to do.”
Despite the thrashing, which is also the biggest ever defeat the team suffered under Kim Swee who took over the reigns of the team in 2009, there is hope for the team.
The experience will be vital as the team prepare for the inaugural Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Under-22 Asian Cup qualifiers scheduled to kick off on June 23.
“We have to look at the future now. I believe the players would have learnt their lesson and will get better as they mature,” said Kim Swee.
Thursday, 23 February 2012
Malaysia go down tamely to Japan in Olympic qualifier
The hard truth is that Malaysia remain a long way from matching Asia's best as yesterday's 4-0 defeat to Japan in the 2012 Asian Olympic Group qualifier at the National Stadium underlined.
The national Under-23 team lacked imagination and cutting edge as they crashed to their heaviest defeat in nine matches in this campaign and the fifth in a row in Group C.
Coach Ong Kim Swee admitted his team were below par and that plenty of work needs to be done to catch up with the likes of Japan.
"I hope everyone can see that we have a lot of work to do. We lost to a better team and people would compare with the first match (in Tosu last year) when we parked the bus and lost 2-0.
"Today (Yesterday) we tried several attacking options and it got worse. We need to be consistent over 90 minutes, we lack the ability of Japan and we got punished.
"We learned a good lesson of what it takes to achieve their level, it's what separates us from being a good and matured team," said Kim Swee after presiding over a seventh successive defeat to Japan at Under-23 level since 1999.
Japan dominated the game from the start as Khairul Fahmi Che Mat was the busier of the two goalkeepers early on when he twice denied Japan in the first 16 minutes -- saving from Manabu Saito in the eighth minute before turning Hiroki Sakai's low effort past the post.
Malaysia suffered a blow when right-back Mahalli Jasuli hobbled off in the 18th minute to be replaced by Affize Faisal Mamat before Japan struck in the 35th minute on the counter.
Genki Haraguchi beat Amer Saidin in pace and though the defender recovered with a last-ditch tackle, he only succeeded in diverting the ball into the path of Sakai to slot past Fahmi.
Nazmi Faiz Mansor engineered the best chance for Malaysia four minutes later but A. Thamil Arasu struck his shot weakly at Shuichi Gonda.
Japan punished Malaysia for that miss on the stroke of half-time when Yuya Osako nodded in unchallenged off a free-kick to make it 2-0.
"That goal killed us," said Kim Swee. "It was hard to get back, that was the turning point. The boys tried hard but I have to admit we did not play that well."
It got worse for Malaysia after the break as Sakai turned provider ten minutes later when his cross from the right was met by the on-rushing Haraguchi at the far post to effectively kill the game as a contest.
On the hour mark, Takahiro Oghihara's shot from outside the penalty box was parried by Fahmi to a lurking Saito, who only had to tap it in for the fourth goal.
The national Under-23 team lacked imagination and cutting edge as they crashed to their heaviest defeat in nine matches in this campaign and the fifth in a row in Group C.
Coach Ong Kim Swee admitted his team were below par and that plenty of work needs to be done to catch up with the likes of Japan.
"I hope everyone can see that we have a lot of work to do. We lost to a better team and people would compare with the first match (in Tosu last year) when we parked the bus and lost 2-0.
"Today (Yesterday) we tried several attacking options and it got worse. We need to be consistent over 90 minutes, we lack the ability of Japan and we got punished.
"We learned a good lesson of what it takes to achieve their level, it's what separates us from being a good and matured team," said Kim Swee after presiding over a seventh successive defeat to Japan at Under-23 level since 1999.
Japan dominated the game from the start as Khairul Fahmi Che Mat was the busier of the two goalkeepers early on when he twice denied Japan in the first 16 minutes -- saving from Manabu Saito in the eighth minute before turning Hiroki Sakai's low effort past the post.
Malaysia suffered a blow when right-back Mahalli Jasuli hobbled off in the 18th minute to be replaced by Affize Faisal Mamat before Japan struck in the 35th minute on the counter.
Genki Haraguchi beat Amer Saidin in pace and though the defender recovered with a last-ditch tackle, he only succeeded in diverting the ball into the path of Sakai to slot past Fahmi.
Nazmi Faiz Mansor engineered the best chance for Malaysia four minutes later but A. Thamil Arasu struck his shot weakly at Shuichi Gonda.
Japan punished Malaysia for that miss on the stroke of half-time when Yuya Osako nodded in unchallenged off a free-kick to make it 2-0.
"That goal killed us," said Kim Swee. "It was hard to get back, that was the turning point. The boys tried hard but I have to admit we did not play that well."
It got worse for Malaysia after the break as Sakai turned provider ten minutes later when his cross from the right was met by the on-rushing Haraguchi at the far post to effectively kill the game as a contest.
On the hour mark, Takahiro Oghihara's shot from outside the penalty box was parried by Fahmi to a lurking Saito, who only had to tap it in for the fourth goal.
Former Prime Minister believes Malaysia can become one of the best teams in Asia
Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad believes that Malaysia are capable of becoming one of the best football teams in Asia.
Dr Mahathir visited the national Under-23 team at the Palace of the Golden Horses yesterday, ahead of their Asian Zone Group C Olympic qualifying match at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil last night.
He said the Malaysian players had the physique to match their Japanese counterparts.
“I’m a doctor and I know that diet and nutrition play a big role in sports,” he said. “Our sportsmen were small sized before but we are now capable matching foreign athletes, especially our footballers who are of the same size as the Japanese. We have a tough match against the Japan but I really hope we can beat them this time.”
Dr Mahathir, who advocated the Look East policy in 1981, has advised the team to emulate Japan’s success in football.
“We can learn a lot from the Japanese … they are very productive and very efficient people,” he said.
Dr Mahathir visited the national Under-23 team at the Palace of the Golden Horses yesterday, ahead of their Asian Zone Group C Olympic qualifying match at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil last night.
He said the Malaysian players had the physique to match their Japanese counterparts.
“I’m a doctor and I know that diet and nutrition play a big role in sports,” he said. “Our sportsmen were small sized before but we are now capable matching foreign athletes, especially our footballers who are of the same size as the Japanese. We have a tough match against the Japan but I really hope we can beat them this time.”
Dr Mahathir, who advocated the Look East policy in 1981, has advised the team to emulate Japan’s success in football.
“We can learn a lot from the Japanese … they are very productive and very efficient people,” he said.
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