Even though we are so excited with the coming AFF cup, which will be played in my adopted city of Shah Alam, but deep down my biggest concern is the fact that Harimau Malaya is not at the best possible condition.
Why? Our main striker Safee sali is struggling with match fitness, not playing in any competitive match since july due to ISL early finished. Being limited to trained with harimau muda, Safee lost of match sharpness and his goal predatory instinct is beginning to take effect.
Fellow strike partner Norshahrul Idlan Talaha not having the best football of his career this year, at least on his standard. I can't even remember for any game this season, where mat yo put his match winning performance. The rotation policy by Bojan Hodak could be the factor for this, as Kelantan involved with the AFC cup. I always wish he could performing well at the continental level instead of domestic football. But so far the flash of his trickery is missing big time.
How are we going to get a goal if these two goal machine are not at their best form?
Can we rely on our new generations of striker to do the job? The likes of Shakir Ali, Rozaimi Abd Rahman, Muhd Afiq Azmi and Hazwan Bakri?
I am not the fans of Datuk K Rajagobal's tactic. Flat 4-4-2 since 2009, his style of play is very predictable and straight forward. When Safiq Rahim get the ball, we knew what will happen next. He will pump it long for the flanks to give the chase, and expecting the opponent's defender to slip up. The defeat by Vietnam in September was a blessing in disguise. I hope he can work out his tactical discipline, and to prevent a similar dull performance to ever happen again.
The misfiring forward line and boring game plan are my greatest concern. We need to do more to ensure we can keep the cup. Remember, this is by far, our own 'world cup'. The scale of south east asia's public endorsement towards the tournament is truly phenomenal. Not just us in Malaysia, the region is taking this cup more seriously.
However, me as a football fans need to update my tactical knowledge. I need to read more on the latest modern football game plan. To feel it, to breath the pure football air, i am looking forward to the classic Milan Derby next week...for learning and exposure wise. Why Serie A? I'll let you know next time Insha Allah
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