FAM Optimistic Malaysia’s U-17 Squad Can Spring a Surprise

PETALING JAYA: Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) President Datuk Ab Ghani Hassan believes the national men’s Under-17 (U-17) squad has the potential to deliver positive results in the AFC U-17 Asian Cup qualifiers, scheduled to take place in Selayang from November 8 to 20.

He stressed that producing quality performances must be the players’ priority, expressing confidence that consistent displays could give Malaysia an opportunity to secure positive results in the tournament.

“Our hope is that they will play well. Good performances will certainly lead to good results.

“We hope they can achieve something similar to what the U-19 squad did previously (qualifying for the finals), to prove that we are on the right track to progress further, beyond just the ASEAN level,” he told reporters.

According to Ab Ghani, the previous achievements of the national youth squads, including the U-19 team’s qualification for the finals under coach Shukor Adan, were positive signs of the country’s football development.

He also believes the U-17 squad has the potential to follow in their footsteps, particularly with home advantage, which should be fully utilised in their pursuit of a place in the finals.

Ab Ghani said FAM wanted to ensure comprehensive football development across all age groups while setting targets to improve the performances of national teams.

“We want to see changes within FAM. When it comes to football, every age group must be prepared to achieve good results.

“We are moving in that direction to ensure every team, regardless of the tournament, receives serious attention in representing the country,” he said.

In the qualifying campaign, Malaysia have been drawn in Group E alongside India, Palestine, Singapore and Guam, with all matches scheduled to take place at the Selayang Municipal Council Stadium.

However, the national squad faces a challenging task, as only the group winners will qualify for the finals, scheduled to be held in Uzbekistan from May 12 to 29, 2027.

UTUSAN MALAYSIA