Indian football team look to surprise Malaysia in opener

Igor Stimac

In search of their first title win in the Merdeka Tournament, a confident Indian football team will look to spring a surprise on in-form hosts Malaysia in the opening game, here on Friday.

The tournament, also known as the mini Asia Cup this year will feature only three teams - Tajikistan being the third - as strife-torn Palestine had pulled out of the event at the last minute.

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In fact, the winner of the clash between India and Malaysia will take on Tajikistan in the final on October 17.

While India's last appearance was in the Asian Games wherein they exited from the competition in the round of 16, the Igor Stimac-coached side will have their task cut out against Malaysia in the tournament which is happening after a gap of almost a decade. Malaysia have recorded six wins in nine matches with two draws and one defeat so far this year, signalling their impressive form.

India coach Stimac said his side is prepared for the challenge ahead of the knockout clash against Malaysia. "We know about the good runs Malaysia have had in the past few months. They have a good coach and some wonderful homegrown players, who are very well supported by the naturalised players, so there is a lot of stability in the team at the moment," Stimac was quoted as saying in an AIFF release.

The Indian coach conceded that Malaysia, who are expected to have a crowd support of as many as 90,000 fans in the Bukit Jalil Stadium here, have the advantage going into the contest but expressed that his side will be ready.

"I believe it's advantage Malaysia in the first game. Obviously, they are on their home turf and have had a good run here, but we are here to spring a few surprises against them," said Stimac.

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