FIFA ASEAN Cup: Cheng Hoe Wants Malaysia to Draw Energy From Gelora Bung Karno Crowd

JAKARTA: Harimau Malaya interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe wants his players to use the atmosphere at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium (GBK) as motivation when they face hosts Indonesia in their Group A Division 1 clash of the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup here on Monday.

Cheng Hoe said he expects an intense atmosphere, with the home crowd throwing their full support behind the Garuda squad, but believes the situation should inspire rather than intimidate his players.

The 58-year-old coach said Malaysia must embrace the occasion, remain composed and focus on their own game in what is expected to be a high-intensity encounter.

“Playing against Indonesia at GBK really gives us confidence and excitement. I think the stadium will be full, and our players really enjoy this kind of atmosphere.

“At the same time, we need to stay focused. We know playing against Indonesia is not an easy game,” he said at a post-match press conference following Malaysia’s 3-0 victory over Bangladesh.

Cheng Hoe said the opening victory yesterday had also given Malaysia a timely confidence boost and positive momentum ahead of their meeting with the hosts.

He said the coaching staff and players were ready to embrace the challenge, although the short turnaround meant recovery would be crucial before their next match.

Cheng Hoe said Malaysia must build on their encouraging start while preparing for a tougher test against an Indonesian side that also opened their campaign with a victory.

“The first step was good because we won the opening match. It gives us confidence and good momentum. For sure, the coaching staff and players are ready to compete against Indonesia and are prepared for the next match,” he said.

Cheng Hoe said the medical team would assess the players’ condition over the next two days before the coaching staff finalises its plans for Monday.

Malaysia opened their campaign with a 3-0 victory over Bangladesh, while Indonesia also began the tournament with a 2-0 win over Singapore.

The last meeting between the two teams saw Indonesia claim a 4-1 victory in the group stage of the 2021 AFF Cup, while their most recent encounter at GBK ended in a 3-2 win for Malaysia during the 2022 World Cup/2023 Asian Cup qualifying campaign in 2019.

Bernama