Speedy Tigers aim to build on Asian Games silver in India

The Malaysian Speedy Tigers are set to participate in the Punjab, India tournament from October 27 to November 5. The national men's senior team aims to capitalize on their silver medal finish at the Asian Games, as reported by Aftar Singh.

Head coach Datuk Ahmad Najmi Abdul Razak stated that the team seeks to maintain the momentum gained from their runner-up position at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. He challenged the players to overcome the defending champions, India, on their home soil, while ensuring consistent performance throughout the tournament.

Norsyafiq Sumantri, the only player absent from the squad due to a biceps injury, was replaced by Adam Asyraf Johari, who is currently participating in the Under-21 Sultan of Johor Cup. The Malaysian squad includes players from various positions such as goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards.

The participating teams also consist of Japan, South Korea, China, and Bangladesh. The tournament will follow a round-robin format, with Malaysia's opening match against China scheduled for October 27. Other matchups include games against South Korea (October 29), Bangladesh (October 30), India (November 1), and Japan (November 2).

Malaysia has never won the Asian Champions Trophy, with their best performance being runners-up to India in Chennai in 2023. Their previous appearance at the Asian Champions Trophy in Inner Mongolia, China in 2024 saw them finish last among six teams.