Malaysia U-23 Coach Shocked After Losing 7 Core Players at the SEA Games

December 2, 2025
10:22 AM

Jakarta, hitclubapk3 Indonesia
—
Malaysia U-23 National Team coach Nafuzi Zain is worried because he has the potential to lose up to seven main players for the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand due to the players’ commitments to Malaysian Super League clubs.
He admitted that this situation made him quite worried ahead of the opening match against Laos on Saturday (6/12).
“So far, seven (players) are certain (not in the team), but the Selangor players may (be able to play based on) discussions, but our (other) players can’t be sure yet,” said Nafuzi at the Sime Darby Training Field, Bukit Jelutong, Monday (1/12), quoted from
Malaysian Daily News
.
ADVERTISEMENT
SCROLL TO CONTINUE WITH CONTENT
“The previous two tournaments resulted in our failure to qualify for the next round due to defeat in the first match, and of course we need the best players. We know this is not on the FIFA calendar and the club has the right not to release players, but hopefully there will be consideration in this match,” added Nafuzi.
Nafuzi emphasized that although there are still options to maximize existing players, the experience of the Malaysian Super League players is still needed to face the crucial first match.
Nafuzi also explained that during the training camp which was held on November 25, it took place under limited conditions.However, Nafuzi feels calm because the existing Malaysian players continue to show full commitment.
“In terms of preparation, we continue to train even in a situation where there is a shortage of players. The number of players is not sufficient, and maybe there are those who take part in training and then return to compete with the state, with the club, then join us again,” said Nafuzi.
The men’s soccer schedule for the 2025 SEA Games will take place from 3 to 18 December.
Group A consists of Thailand, Timor Leste and Singapore.Meanwhile, Group B is filled with Vietnam, Malaysia and Laos.Meanwhile, Group C consists of Indonesia, Myanmar and the Philippines.
[Gambas:hitclubapk3 Video]
(rhr/rhr/sry)