Yemen eye end to 12-year winless run against depleted Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR - Yemen are optimistic about ending a 12-year winless streak against Malaysia when the two teams face off in China on November 17. Sports portal Kooora claims Yemen's technical staff will use the match to test various tactics and formations, blending domestic league players with foreign-based professionals. This will be the first meeting between the sides since March 2014, when Malaysia secured a 2-1 victory over Yemen in an Asian Cup qualifier.

Malaysia has claimed three wins, drawn one, and lost once in their previous five encounters. Yemen, currently ranked 144th globally, trails Malaysia by 11 places, who enter the four-nation tournament at No. 133. A win in this match could significantly boost Yemen's standing ahead of future international assignments.

Yemen has ramped up preparations under Algerian coach Noureddine Ould Ali, who set up a training camp in Cairo before the squad departs for Guangdong. The team includes domestic talents from Sha ab Hadramout and overseas-based professionals who have joined in Egypt and China. Notably absent from the Yemeni lineup are established JDT players Matthew Davies, La Vere Corbin-Ong, and goalkeeper Syihan Hazmi, with Dion Cools expected to feature as an overseas-based player.

Yemen's recent form, including a 2-0 win over Lebanon and a 5-2 victory against Bahrain, provides them with some confidence. Captain Abdulwasea Al-Matari is anticipated to lead an aggressive, high-pressing strategy, according to Yemeni commentators.