Malaysia’s 4-0 win over Laos boosts confidence ahead of Thailand clash in 2026 ASEAN Cup, says interim head coach Cheng Hoe.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s 4-0 victory over Laos has provided the team with the confidence and motivation to face a tougher challenge against seven-time champions Thailand in their next 2026 ASEAN Cup Group B match this Saturday.
Interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe (pic) said the three points in the second Group B match at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium tonight were important in helping Harimau Malaya maintain momentum while building understanding among players, as his side prepares for the clash at Rajamangala Stadium, Bangkok, this Saturday.
“As a coach, I’m very, very pleased with the result. We continue to get the momentum, getting back the understanding with the team,” he said.
“Definitely, we have a lot of homework to do to improve the team. At the same time, we have another two days to prepare ourselves to get ready for the next game with Thailand.”
He acknowledged that Malaysia will face a different level of challenge against Thailand, a side boasting quality players and home advantage.
Cheng Hoe admitted Malaysia faced difficulties in the opening half against Laos, as they defended in a compact shape and prevented the home side from finding an early breakthrough.
However, he said captain Paulo Josue’s opening goal at the end of the first half gave Malaysia the confidence needed to improve after the interval, with the team eventually adding three more goals to seal a convincing victory.
Man-of-the-match G Pavithran credited the support from his teammates, especially the experienced players, for helping him grow in confidence after producing two assists in Malaysia’s win.
The young winger also hoped that his teammates will focus on securing another three points against Thailand and give them a strong chance of reaching the semi-finals.
Laos head coach Vladica Grujic lamented his side’s inability to convert two big chances in the first half and believed the game could have been different had they capitalised on them.
The 63-year-old coach also praised Malaysia’s pace and movement behind the defensive line as it constantly put his defenders under pressure and conceded four goals.
Malaysia now leads Group B with six points, ahead of Thailand and Myanmar, each tied with three points, and the Philippines and Laos, both without any points.
