KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 7 (Bernama) –National Under-16 (U-16) football team head coach Muhammad Shukor Adan has urged his players to secure all three points in their opening Group E match of the 2027 U-17 Asian Cup qualifiers against Palestine tomorrow.
Shukor said a victory in this first match taking place at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras is crucial for Malaysia to get off to a strong start in the qualifying campaign and build positive momentum for the matches ahead.
“The other matches are also important, but the first one is even more crucial. I hope the players can translate their performance onto the pitch tomorrow night,” he said during the pre-match press conference ahead of the game against Palestine, held here today.
“I am confident the players understand the situation regarding the qualifying round, they will give their best tomorrow night and ensure we secure all three points.”
Commenting on the challenge posed by Palestine, the former national player acknowledged that they possess advantages in terms of physical and mental strength, but emphasised that Malaysia would not underestimate the capabilities of the side coached by Mohammed Sharbaji.
Shukor said the team’s preparations during the training camp have gone smoothly, with all players in good condition and free from injury providing him with more options to devise the best tactical approach.
Meanwhile, team captain Adam Muqri Muhaizam said the national squad is fully prepared, with a clear objective to secure a spot in the tournament’s final round.
“I believe our team is fully prepared, and everyone is ready to give 100 per cent and fight against Palestine,” he said.
Looking ahead to tomorrow’s opening encounter, Mohammed Sharbaji acknowledged the quality of the Malaysian squad, describing the hosts as a team that has worked hard and delivered encouraging performances in recent matches.
Despite recognising the challenge posed by Malaysia, he noted that his players remain confident in their own abilities and are determined to secure a place in the final round.
Only the winner of each group in the qualifying round will advance to the final tournament, which will be held in Uzbekistan from May 12–29 next year.
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