Speaking before the crucial Group F match in the final qualification round for the 2027 Asian Cup, Cklamovski asserted that his squad is physically and tactically ready: “Everything is moving in the right direction. We are building Malaysia into a top-tier team. There's still a long journey ahead, but I’m pleased with the early progress.”

Malaysia recently held Cape Verde to a 1-1 draw on May 29, then faced them again on June 3 in an intensive trial where all 30 players participated over three 30-minute periods. According to the Australian coach, the matches helped assess both regulars and new additions to the squad.

“This match against Vietnam is vital. We’ve prepared thoroughly, and the players are eager to perform at Bukit Jalil and make the nation proud. Despite negative social media chatter, the team remains unaffected and focused. I’m pleased with how willing the players are to follow my vision,” Cklamovski added.

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has faced backlash for calling up five naturalized players with foreign origins to the national team. Despite this, FAM emphasized that its only focus is on ending Malaysia’s 11-year winless streak against Vietnam.

Cklamovski responded firmly to the criticism: “Our players are not distracted by online opinions or expert commentary. Some of them have just joined from abroad, and they carry a deep sense of pride. You can see it during training and in how they contribute to a family-like atmosphere within the squad. I want them to show even more of that spirit against Vietnam.”

The coach stressed the team’s determined mindset: “We aim to win every match. Malaysia hasn’t beaten Vietnam in 11 years. But instead of fear, we see that as a challenge. I want the players to seize this moment and make history.”

The decisive match between Vietnam and Malaysia kicks off at 8:00 p.m. on June 10 at Bukit Jalil Stadium in Kuala Lumpur.

Dai Nam