SINGAPORE (25 Nov 2014) – Safee Sali and Safiq Rahim became super stars following Malaysia’s triumphant AFF Suzuki Cup 2010 campaign. Since then however, things have changed for the duo. In fact, they no longer command regular slots in the national team.
But coach Dollah Saleh hinted today that he may field both Safee and Safiq in the starting line-up for the crucial showdown with favourites Thailand tomorrow evening.
Dollah is expected to field Safiq, the former national captain, in place of the suspended Gary Steven Robbat, who was red-carded in the opening game against Myanmar. Dollah brought on Gary later in the match and his presence added bite to the Malaysian attack.
As for Safee, Dollah is considering bringing in the player after Norshahrul Idlan Talaha and Amri Yahyah failed to connect against Myanmar.
“Thailand are the favourites, it’s going to be tough for us,” the former national striker said. When asked about his forwardline which failed to score, Dollah said Norshahrul was trying very hard. “The goals will come, maybe we will see something special tomorrow.”
While Thailand have become the favourites following their sensational opening win over defending champions Singapore, Thai assistant coach, Kairung Threejagsang says the Malaysians were still a threat.
“Malaysia have experienced players who can control the game. “You could see in the first match, although they were down by one player, they still managed to stop Myanmar, Kairung said. “We have young players who are eager to win.”
Based on their first game against Singapore, the Thais, although younger than the Malaysians, have proven to be well-oiled machine with a dangerous strike-force.
Dollah’s boys are going to have their hands full trying to put the brakes on the young guns tomorrow. Malaysian keeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat played superbly against Myanmar and stopped numerous attempts, including several lose-range shots. Khairul and the defence will have to be at their best tomorrow to hold off the Thais.
The Thailand-Malaysia match will kick-off tomorrow evening at 5pm at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
