SEA Games: Timor Leste Will Make Life Difficult For Malaysia
28 Mei, 2015
National coach Ong Kim Swee (right) giving instructions to his players during their
training at the ITE Sports Complex in Singapore ahead of their opening match
against Timor Leste on Saturday. - S. S KANESAN / The Star
SINGAPORE: Don’t look down on Timor Leste. The minnows plan to play the spoilers’ role at the SEA Games football competition.
This is not good news for Malaysia as they open their Group B campaign against Timor Leste in the Under-23 competition at the Bishan Stadium, Saturday.
Timor Leste coach Fabio da Silva concedes that they are no match for their rivals, but has vowed to make life difficult for them.
“We know our position in this region ... but we will try to give the other teams a run for their money,” said Da Silva after a training session.
“Malaysia are an experienced side, but there is no pressure on us. We will go out and enjoy ourselves. The opening three points are important. If we don’t get the desired result, it’s not the end of the world.
“There is no domestic league in Timor Leste, but we have played in a few friendlies to keep the players in competition mode.”
The 37-year-old Da Silva, who handles both Timor Leste’s senior and Under-23 sides, said his side “are a highly disciplined lot”.
“Timor Leste football is growing. The players have good techniques. I foresee a good future for Timor Leste football,” said Da Silva.
The other teams in Group B with Malaysia are favourites Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Brunei. Group A comprises Singapore, Indonesia, Myanmar, Cambodia and the Philippines.
Sumber - K. Rajan, Star Online
www.thestar.com.my
