Nepal to tackle mighty Malaysia in qualifier today

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Mar. 25: Nepal, fresh off a landmark win against Singapore in an international friendly, aim to upset Malaysia in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers.

The Group F clash between Nepal and Malaysia kicks off at 7:45 PM Nepali time at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, Johor, on Tuesday.

Nepal’s Australian coach Matt Ross, on his first major assignment, stated that his team will aim to trouble hosts Malaysia with their game plan. Under Ross’s watch, Nepal are playing their opening match of the qualifiers. His stint began on a high note with Nepal’s 1-0 win over Singapore last Friday.

Ross, speaking at the pre-match conference, emphasized that Nepal will target all three points. “Malaysia are a strong team, but we won’t settle for just a draw. Our objective is to win, and we have prepared accordingly,” said Ross.

Nepal, ranked 175th, have never beaten 132nd-ranked Malaysia in seven prior meetings. Malaysia have secured six wins, with one match ending in a draw. Despite the odds, Ross has called for a front-foot approach. “Rankings don’t decide matches. We’ll focus on possession and take our chances when they come,” he said.

Nepal last faced Malaysia in a friendly in 2019, losing 2-0. In past encounters, Malaysia’s dominance included a 7-0 thrashing in the 1983 Merdeka Cup. Nepal earned a draw and suffered heavy defeats in their World Cup qualifiers in the 1980s. Their recent record includes another 2-0 loss in 2009.

Nepal’s captain and goalkeeper, Kiran Chemjong, expressed optimism ahead of the away fixture. “We’ve played in front of big crowds at home, and we’ll have supporters here as well. Playing away won’t hold us back,” said Chemjong. He added that a strong turnout of Nepali fans in Malaysia could boost the team.

Originally, Nepal’s home match was scheduled at Dasarath Stadium, but the venue failed to meet AFC standards. The teams have swapped venues, with Malaysia hosting first and Nepal set to host the return leg later.

Malaysia’s head coach, Peter Klimovsky, set for his debut, acknowledged Nepal’s resurgence. “We know Nepal will be motivated after their win against Singapore. They won’t be easy opponents,” said Klimovsky. He promised an attacking display from his team.

The match marks the start of the final round of qualifiers for the Asian Cup. Both teams will aim to begin their campaign on a strong note.