Malaysia
Amin Anas
Malaysia is well prepared against Vietnam. Recently, they defeated Sri Lanka 6-0 during a friendly match at Bukit Jalil. The presence of former captain Aidil Zafuan to the squad may actually give a little boost for the back four. However, Malaysia will be heading to Vietnam without Nor Azam Azih, J Partiban, and Shahrel Fikri due to serious injuries. Based on current performance, Malaysia has a chance to grab all three points at Hanoi.
Vietnam is a far better team than Malaysia. They even ranked higher than Malaysia in the FIFA World Ranking. Last year, Malaysia was defeated by Vietnam during the AFF Cup final. They also have talented players, with some of their players are playing in Europe. Surely, Vietnam will be eager not to drop any points at home.
Player to Watch – Syafiq Ahmad, Forward, Age 24: Syafiq had shown excellent performance recently. He scored a hattrick against Sri Lanka and provided two assists. He improves a lot after returning from an injury where he suffered from a Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) against Timor Leste in June. He has scored six goals since returning to the squad from that injury. Vietnam’s back four must be worried of his presence on the pitch.
The prediction would be a 2-1 away win for Malaysia. Syafiq Ahmad on the scoresheet for sure.