Malaysian Expert: 'Vietnam National Team is not as strong as South Korea or Japan'

Expert calls on Malaysian players to keep their morale high before the upcoming match against Vietnam National Team in March.

Football expert, Dr. Zulakbal Abdul Karim, stated that the Malaysian National Team players must not let the FIFA storm affect their preparation for the crucial Asian Cup qualifier against the Vietnam National Team away on March 31.

Despite the pressure, uncertainty, and noise surrounding the Malaysian National Team, he believes they must focus on the important match on March 31 at Thien Truong Stadium. Zulakbal, who holds an AFC professional coaching license, said the players must eliminate off-field distractions.

Both FAM and the seven players – Facundo Garces, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, Joao Figueiredo, Gabriel Palmero, Jon Irazabal, and Hector Hevel – have appealed to CAS against FIFA's ban.

"Miracles still happen in sports; we have witnessed underdog stories before, so things could also turn out well for the Malaysian national team," Zulakbal said.

"There is still much uncertainty, but the players should not dwell on CAS's decision. We need them fully focused on the match. The public is outraged over the document forgery issue, and a victory against the Vietnam National Team could soothe that anger."

He said that although the Vietnam National Team is a strong regional power, they are not invincible. "The Vietnam National Team is not like South Korea or Japan. It will be tough facing Vietnam, but we can create an upset."

Malaysia could also receive a timely boost with the potential naturalization of JDT forward Bergson da Silva and KL City defender Giancarlo Gallifuoco. "I believe having Bergson and Gallifuoco in the squad will increase our chances of defeating the Vietnam National Team."

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