Malaysia's Football - Efforts for Improvement

Today is National Day

2008-08-31T21:16:00.003+08:00

SELAMAT
HARI
KEBANGSAAN
MALAYSIA

HAPPY BIRTHDAY
MALAYSIA

Ban On Imports Will Change Malaysian Football Landscape

2008-08-25T22:11:00.003+08:00

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 25 (Bernama) -- The controversial decision by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) banning foreign players from the Malaysian League next season will change the football landscape.

So what can the football fans expect next season. Can the local players fill the vacuum left by the foreign players or imports in the goal scoring department?

Will main contenders Kedah, Perak and Selangor which had been dependent on the imports for goals maintain the same level of standard now that they will not be around.

The contribution of the imports had been enormous and the record speaks for itself. The top four strikers in the Super League were imports.

Golden Boot winner Marlon Alex James of Kedah led the charts with 23 goals followed by Carlos Caceres of Perak (17), Frank Seator of Selangor (15) and Walter Ariel Silva of Johor FC (14).

Malaysia's best player was Mohd Khalid Jamlus of Perak with 13 goals who came in fifth.

It was the same story for the Premier League where the imports showed they were a cut above the locals.

Mouhamodou Moustapha of Kelantan led with 27 goals followed by Otelo Ocampos Espinola of Johor Pasir Gudang (23), Alex Agbo of KL Plus (19).

Home-grown Liew Kit Kong of Kuala Muda NAZA came in third (16 goals).

Kedah's James also dominated the FA Cup and Malaysia Cup competitions scoring 10 and 15 goals respectively.

Imports made their presence felt in Malaysia with the introduction of the Semi-Pro League in 1989.

Except for 2004 when Indra Putra Mahayuddin of Pahang won the Golden Boot with 15 goals, the imports never failed to lead the goalscoring chart.

Julio Cesar Rodrigues of Sabah (18), Zacharia Simukonda of Perlis (18) and Keita Mandjou of Perak (17) were the fans favourties in 2005, 2006 and 2007.

The imports also lighted up the Premier League with Marin Mikac of UPB-MyTeam (13) and Gustavo Fuentes of Melaka (18) leading the way.

FAM local competitions committee chairman Datuk Che Mat Jusoh said the decision to ban imports was for the development of Malaysian football as local players found it hard to shine against the imports.

"Without the imports next season, the fans can really evaluate the standard of Malaysian footballers," he told Bernama.

Che Mat said teams which put up fine displays will draw fans to fill the stadiums and this will augur well for the future of Malaysian football.

He said the imports' presence was of little help to Malaysian football as some lacked quality and caused a drain on the teams' resources.

"Some of those plying their trade in Malaysia are past their best and cannot make it to the major football leagues in Europe," said the FAM vice president.

Other than the ban on imports, the last season also saw FAM bogged with match-fixing allegations by players and the failure of several football associations to pay players' wages and contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).

Malaysian League 2007/2008 Roll of Honours

Malaysia Cup : Kedah

FA Cup : Kedah

Super League : Kedah

Premier League : Kuala Muda NAZA (Kedah)

Sultan Ahmad Shah Cup: Perlis

FAM Cup : T-Team (Terengganu)

President's Cup : Selangor

Youth Cup : Kelantan

-- BERNAMA

Like a Deja-vu..............It was done before and to what effect ?
Pi Mai Pi Mai Tang Tu ..... ( not moving anywhere..... or ...are they ? )

You've got to breathe it to play it

2008-08-25T11:11:00.000+08:00

The writer finds out why Malaysian football is no longer appealing. -NST

Sun, Jul 13, 2008
The New Straits Times

By SONIA RAMACHANDRAN

So Malaysian football rankings improved by three rungs. No big deal as Malaysian fans continue to worship the Ronaldos, Terrys, Torreses and Gerrards. SONIA RAMACHANDRAN, who is no football fan, finds out why Malaysian football is no longer appealing

MUHAMAD Muammar Gadaffi Omar was 6 years old when he first saw football legend Mokhtar Dahari in action. It got him hooked on football and until today, he has remained a fan.

Not of the national team but of the teams playing in the English, Spanish, German, Italian and even South American leagues. And it's all there on satellite television.

Now 33, the government servant remembers the time when Mokhtar's skills on the field had him and thousands of Malaysians enthralled.

"I remember reading about how he scored that fantastic goal from the middle of the pitch in the 1-1 draw against England B at Merdeka Stadium in 1978," said Muhammad Muammar.

"One of the English coaches (Bobby Robson) commented that the only player in the English team who could score like that was the famous Kevin Keegan.

"This showed that Mokhtar's skills were of international standard."

And Malaysian football was well respected then.

Not any more.

Today, Muhammad Muammar dismisses the national team's performance as embarrassing and irritating, which is one reason why he prefers to watch foreign matches.

"If we had players like Mokhtar, Soh Chin Aun, Shukor Salleh and R. Arumugam today, I would definitely watch Malaysian football."

What is the difference between the players of Mokhtar's calibre and the players of today?

"Attitude. Today's players are professionals but their attitude is contrary to that," he said

"Mokhtar was passionate about the game and to him, it was a great honour to represent Malaysia.

"I read that he would not venture out of his room the day before a match just to prepare himself physically and mentally.

"But now, players have been seen at social haunts the night before a match."

Muhammad Muammar said Mokhtar held a 9-to-5 office job and played football after that.

"The national players of today only play football and yet they are an embarrassment."

He suggests that it may be time for Malaysia to adopt the South American style of play to regain our international standing simply because of the players' physique.

"We play the English and European style but the size of our players do not match that of the Europeans.

"The South American players compete against the Europeans with skills, not strength. That's what we should emulate."

According to workshop owner Chai Khong Ngan, the problem with Malaysian football is the officials are not out to improve the quality of the game.

"They are in it for self-gain," said Chai, 59, of Kuala Lumpur.

"There are many good players out there who are not chosen to represent the state or the country.

"Look at Korea. They were of the same standard as Malaysia in the 1970s. But now they have improved tremendously."

What does he think should be done?

"It is very simple. If good and honest officials are appointed, then the standard of the game would improve.

"This would result in more people turning out to watch the matches, which would mean an increase in revenue and better pay for players."

Amir Hussin Awang, a diehard fan, said the problem afflicting Malaysian football was that the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) was run by those who had agendas that did not concern the sport.

He said there were programmes for schoolchildren right up to the national level but the snag was its implementation.

"The implementation is half-baked. The funds are there but the people who run it are not doing it wholeheartedly for the game," said Amir, a company director from Petaling Jaya.

He said the government should spend money on the development of players at school level and clubs should take over after that.

"Sports can be run like a business in the country. The club should be run like a professional outfit which is independent of politics.

"It should be run purely like a business so that it is for their interest that they develop the players properly and market them favourably."

Former top footballer James Wong, who scored the winning goal in the memorable 2-1 win over South Korea which earned Malaysia a place in the 1980 Moscow Olympics, said a Fifa ranking below 100 would be something to celebrate, not an improvement that still sees us at 166th.

"Football is all about hard work, dedication and commitment," said Wong.

"This is where we need to step up the leg work, literally. It's no use talking about rankings, potentials, plans or even past achievements.

"Focus should be on the field because that is where the game is played, not in boardrooms or meetings or coffeeshops.

"When I was a player, we impressed coaches with our work rate both on and off the field.

"Based on what I see on television, our players have a long way to go before matching other Asian teams that have improved by leaps and bounds."

Former national coach Datuk M. Kuppan said to compare the present and past standards of Malaysian football, the attitude of the present and past officials and players had to be studied.

"In those days, passion for football was the order of the day with full commitment, and players were proud to represent the country and were motivated to maintain a high level of fitness.

"Centralised training before a major tournament was for a period of 10 days. The players worked on their own weaknesses before coming in for centralised training and were willing to spend extra time to sharpen their ball skills.

"From my observation, this is a rare commodity now."

However, Kuppan said the FAM should not be solely held responsible for the present standard of the national team.

FAM may have a lot of plans but it doesn't have that many players coming through the assembly line, he said.

"The states must take it upon themselves to plan and organise competitive leagues in all towns and districts that will ensure a rich source of talented players."

National junior league to kick off

2008-04-17T20:59:00.003+08:00

By ERIC SAMUEL

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Education (KPM) in collaboration with the FA of Malaysia (FAM) will start the first national football league for schools. The best school teams from the 14 states will compete in two age groups tournament – the Under-14 and Under-17 leagues.

The Under-14 league for the Minister of Education Cup will include the Bandar Penawar Sports School from Johor while the Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) will be involved in the KPM-FAM Under-17 youth league.

Education Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said at the launch of the leagues that they were serious in their bid to develop the game at the grassroots. “We want to provide the junior players an early start to competitive football,” said Hishammuddin. “This national football league for schools would be a continuous effort by the Ministry to bring about a more comprehensive form of competition for the boys.” He said the competition would provide them an avenue to keep tabs on the promising talents who could play at the Asean and Asian schools tournament.

The annual national junior football league for the Under-14 and 17 age groups will kick off next week and will be played over five months from April to August.

Hishammuddin said the FAM would provide the technical support in organising the league by providing referees and other assistance. The schools chosen would field two teams – one for the Under-14 and another for the Under-17 age groups.

The school teams participating are SMK Syed Hassan, Kangar (Perlis), SMK Tunku Anum Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jitra (Kedah). SMK Mutiara Impian, Seberang Prai (Penang), SMK Clifford, K. Kangsar (Perak), SMK Section 11, Shah Alam (Selangor), SMK Seberang Temerloh (Pahang), SMK Datuk Abdullah, Rembau (N. Sembilan), SMK Dato Dol Said, Alor Gajah (Malacca), SMK Tasek Utara (Johor), SMK Putera, K. Baru (Kelantan), SMK Bukit Nenas, Setiu (Terengganu), SMK Keningau II (Sabah), SMK Tabuan Jaya, Kuching (Sarawak), SMK Raja Abdullah, Kepong (K. Lumpur).

FAM general secretary Datuk Azzuddin Ahmad said it was a good move by the KPM to initiate the national football league for schools and the FAM would also be planning along the same line to organise junior leagues for the lower age groups.

100PLUS, the nation’s number one isotonic drink and strong supporter of sports development programmes, has agreed to a sponsorship deal worth almost RM1mil with the Ministry of Education.

Source : The STAR

Comment : This would be better than sending a couple of player overseas or organising competition/tournament which incurred two figures millions Ringgit Malaysia of "rights fees", thats what some of them thought .........

Star-studded Chelsea’s date in KL is set for July 29

2008-03-29T01:12:00.003+08:00

By AFTAR SINGH

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian football fans will get to watch a star-studded Chelsea first team live in action in Kuala Lumpur.

Chelsea, who will be in Asia for pre-season tour, are scheduled to play against Malaysia on July 29 after a match in China on July 23.

ProEvents are the promoters of the Chelsea tour and their CEO, Julian Kam, said yesterday: “I am sure that many football fans not only in Malaysia but also those from neighbouring countries such as Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and even those in Australia, will welcome this great opportunity to see The Blues in action.”

Chelsea are one the big four clubs in England who are still in the running for double honours this season – the English Premier League and Champions League titles.
“We wish Chelsea all the best in the final stages of the EPL and Champions League and hope that they will come to Asia as champions of both tournaments,'' said Julian.

The chief executive of Chelsea, Peter Kenyon, said that besides the match in Malaysia, they would also host Malaysian national coach B. Sathiananthan for about 10 days at Stamford Bridge in early August.

“I believe this will benefit both parties and may pave the way for other such programmes in future between Malaysia and Chelsea.

“This also underlines Chelsea's commitment to develop football in Asia,'' he said.

The FA of Malaysia (FAM) deputy president, Khairy Jamaluddin, said that national team will feature in the match against Chelsea.

“It will be a good experience for the national players in preparation for the Merdeka Tournament in September,'' he said.

Source : The STAR

By the way is it worth it to get Ian Rush to conduct a "striking clinic" for three days? My friend were saying, It was just like studying a video footage .......

AFC Cup Flop and KJ

2008-03-21T23:54:00.001+08:00

Tuesday, 18 March 2008, shown another proves that not only the Malaysia’s national was far below the standard of today’s football but also the club team. Two Malaysian representative clubs (Kedah and Perak) were humiliated and humbled by big margins (1-5 and 1-6 respectively) by two Singapore’s team (ya….right … Singapore) in the AFC Cup group matches.

It was once said that Malaysian players were more dedicated and spirited to play at club level than the national team but the results were clearly shown that they are facing a real “standard crisis” instead of commitments.

In the other development, Khairy Jamaludin (KJ) was not appointed as minister which means that he will still be with FAM. He also pledged that he will not be accepting any offer to be a minister as long as his farther-in-law (the PM, of course) is still a PM.

Let see, what he can do……………… (Remember: the coming AFF Cup is his Key Performance Indicator (KPI))…..)

KHAIRY JAMALUDDIN IS A MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT!!

2008-03-10T23:18:00.001+08:00

Congratulation to Khairy Jamaluddin (KJ), the Malaysian national team’s manager and FAM big-gun, for being elected as Member of Parliament in the Malaysian election on 8 March 2008.

As numbers of ministers were lost in the election and considering his position in the UMNO youth, it is possible that he might be given ministerial or at least Ministries' Parliament Secretarial post. If this happen, he will have to surrender his post in FAM.

What will happen to his plan in FAM? We will see ……….

FAM Being Kicked !!!!!

2008-02-19T23:39:00.005+08:00

FAM wrong Emblem/Logo

ESPN has apologised to Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) for displaying the wrong FAM logo on Feb 13 during a live telephone call to FAM secretary-general Datuk Azzuddin Ahmad.
During the Sportscenter Asia broadcast on Wednesday, ESPN showed a parodied-logo instead of the official FAM logo. It’s reported by Utusan that the staff from Sportscenter Asia had searched for the logo online and had mistaken that as the official logo. FAM website has been under construction for quite some time, and the ESPN staff obviously couldn’t get the logo from an official source. The website would only be back by March 1 according to Azzuddin.

It is a shame that FAM’s website has to be taken down for weeks for reconstruction. This actually exposed a serious issue on how incompetence some web development companies in Malaysia are and how some Malaysian websites are poorly managed.

By the way the words in the altered logo was "Persatuan Kenasepak Malaysia" instead of "Persatuan Bolasesepak Malaysia". "Kenasepak" literally means "being kicked"!!!!!!

Ha...Ha....ha......... Another frustrated malaysian or Malaysian Football now has becoming a laughing stock.........

Bad Strikers ; Good Management ?

2008-02-17T12:04:00.001+08:00

One of the obvious problems in Malaysia’s football team is the lack of prolific striker. This fact was admitted by FAM.

“Last year, we found that there were weaknesses in this position and the problem was not confined to only national team but to the country’s football as a whole. We were lack of good finishing strikers and our last year (2007) results were the reflection of this,” says Khairy Jamaluddin (KJ), the FAM Vice-President and national team’s newly appointed manager.

To overcome the problem, FAM will be organizing a football clinic especially for strikers soon. The clinic will be conducted by former Wales and Liverpool striker, Ian Rush, and offer will be made to all state and club team.

“We hope that teams will send at least one striker to the clinic which will be held for three days,” KJ said.

Meanwhile, the FAM secretary, Datuk Azzuddin Ahmad said, FAM will seek assistance from Ajax Amsterdam from Holland to identify ways of improving Malaysia’s football.

“What we need now is technical advices and not management advices. We need to be opened and get assistance from numerous sources instead of just one,” he said.

Before this, FAM was seeking FIFA assistance on the same matter.

Ajax Amsterdam was well-connected with Gifted Group Ltd, the organizer of Club Youth Champion (CYC), which was held in Kuala Lumpur last year, and was reported to be willing to give assistance needed. Among others, these were including coaching courses and chance to train with the club’s team.

Source: Harian Metro, 5 February, 2008.

Questions;
Technical but not management assistance?
Good strikers in three days?

Ya……………Right!!!!!!!!

KJ IS THE NEW MANAGER .......

2008-02-09T05:00:00.000+08:00

With immediate effect, Vice President of Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), Khairy Jamaluddin (KJ) was appointed as the national team’s manager replacing Datuk Anifah Aman. He was appointed to replace Anifah who resigned last year. The announcement of his appointment was made in the FAM’s exco meeting on February 4, 2008.

Responding to the appointment, his immediate target is the AFF Cup which was scheduled in Thailand later this year. For him, the tournament can be considered as the early assessment for him and coach, Sathianathan.

30 trainees consist of players from M-League was chosen and currently attending a centralized training under Sathianathan.

NEW MANAGER, NEW PLANS………………NEW HOPE?

FAM to seek help from FIFA

2008-02-03T01:48:00.000+08:00

KUALA LUMPUR: Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) will seek help from International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA) with a view to enhancing the status of national football.

FAM secretary-general Datuk Azzuddin Ahmad said the country’s football governing body wished FIFA could assist in conducting a study on how to improve local football and analysing the national team and the achievement of the Malaysian league.

“As there is no definite plan in Malaysia where the football system keeps on changing, the team from FIFA will monitor the present system to see whether it is heading to the right direction,” he said.

Malaysia, 167th in FIFA rankings, would still be able to make some major changes, told reporters after a seminar on the trend of modern football conducted by the FIFA technical director Jean Michel Benezet here.

Meanwhile, Benezet said FAM should organise an academic talent programme, start training players as young as five years’ old, set up coach education programme and review the Malaysian league and football club licensing.

“We don’t talk about semi-pro or amateur level, we are talking about the professional level and all the facilities at the club must be on par with the elite club standard,” he said.

— Bernama

DESPERATE OR PUSHING THE "PANIC BUTTON"?

FOOTBALL a thinking game?

2007-12-19T22:21:00.000+08:00

That’s what one of our foot ball greats, Datuk Soh Chin Aun, had to say about his boys after they lost a shot at the medals in the Korat Sea Games recently.

The football team manager of Korat Sea Games was quoted as saying that our boys lacked individual skills and repeated his concerns that the nation lacked “thinking players”.

Team in Korat was without a real "play-maker" on the field. Nobody was really able to read and dictate the games well and give "direction" to other players. Coach's instruction will not be translated fully on the field without this breed of players.

Minding that the different between the SEA Games team and the Merdeka Cup champion was Nor Hafiz Zamani Misbah who were not in the Korat's losing team team due to the age limit rules. To make things worst the capable replacement , Aidil Zaquan (am I correct ?) was not able to play in the first two games due to suspension .

Short of able replacement or should all of them be a thinking player ? Start thinking........

Failure In Korat

2007-12-10T16:12:00.000+08:00

Yet again Malaysia failed in making any commendable achievement in the SEA Games. This morning, I heard a radio DJ, suggesting that the Malaysian players to go for a holiday by taking advantage of the low air-fare. Yet again the team was very frustrating and yet again becoming a laughing stock.

Beaten by Vietnam and a draw to Singapore really had Malaysians' hearts broken. A friend of mine doesn't really care now whether Malaysia have a team or not.

When will this going to an end or will it be.......

Glamourous Life Vs Performance

2007-11-30T23:02:00.000+08:00

Malaysian footballers were very good and exceptionally performing during their very young age. However, as they grow up and becoming teenager on their way becoming adults, there are normally "unhealthy" influential elements that "pausing" their football developments.

A classic example is, when they started being "glamourous" and hunt by tabloids that ever wanted to snap their photos with actresses making them no longer focus in their performance in the field.

Maybe next time we talk about WAGS in Malaysian Football ................

After a long Break

2007-11-10T22:20:00.000+08:00

Have not been posting for quite a while. More that a month to be exact. Because of a few reasons. Some of them that I can think of

Fasting month and Eid.
Boring and fed up of the recent Malaysia national team's achievement (lost to Bahrain in the World Cup Qualifying). Seems like no improvement..........

Hope to write more ....... May the team inspire me......

Animated Soccer Coaching

2007-10-06T00:41:00.000+08:00

While surfing the internet today, I found an interesting site that provide useful tips and guide for coaching better football/soccer. Some of the items are free. Looks interesting indeed with attractive animated ways of better coaching. In my opinion, these tips are really helpful for grass-root soccer development and training. Go to this site and give your comment

soccertutor.com

Scomi Mykids Announces Nation's Top Football Kids

2007-10-03T22:29:00.000+08:00

( Date Posted: 18 September 2007 )

Kuala Lumpur, 17 September 2007- Scomi recently wrapped up its search for Malaysia's top football talents aged 12 years and below under the Scomi MyKids programme, which created a lot of hype, renewing interest in football among children.

"The Scomi-MyKids is a unique programme - apart from identifying top football talents, we also created a lot of hype among the primary school children. This is another objective of Scomi-MyKids - to generate renewed interest in football. This resulted in an overwhelming turnout, which was beyond our expectations," said En Shah Hakim Zain, Scomi Group CEO.

Through a series of football trials held at various locations in Malaysia, Scomi-MyKids has identified nine of the best young players for a trip to Manchester, UK from 30th September to 6th October 2007 for a football experience of a lifetime.

In total, over two thousand children turned up for the trials - some as young as six-years. The trials involved a series of tests for speed, skill, strategy and endurance.

Among the exciting highlights for this trip is that these kids will be taken for a tour around Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium as well as watch one of Manchester United's matches live.

"Scomi-MyKids is about grassroot football development and providing the platform to enable young sporting talents to realise their potential in this sport. These young talents are the future of Malaysian football. And Scomi hopes that one day, they will realise the country's potential to excel in football," according to En Shah.

p.s : Future of Malaysian football ....?

Seven U-18 soccer players can skip SPM exams

2007-10-02T14:19:00.000+08:00

Putra Jaya: Seven students named in the squad for the under-18 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup qualifing tournament in China from Nov. 6 to 18 have been allowed to skip their Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations.

Their SPM grades would therefore be based on assessment using the "agrotat" method and they would still receive SPM certificates without sitting for the examination, Education Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said in a statement.

"Through the agrotat method, the Malaysia Examination Board will assess their academic achievement based on information obtained from other sources such as their performance in previous public examinations, SPM trial examinations handled by the school and the General Aptitude Test that will be conducted by the board after the tournament," he said.

He said that the agrotat procedure had been used by the board for special cases like the present one before.

Examination bodies in other parts of the world had similar procedures spelt out in their examination rules, he said.

Among them were the New Zealand Qualifications Authority, Scottish Qualifications Authority, Assessment and Qualification Alliance, Oxford, Cambridge and Royal School of Arts and Edexcel International, he said.

"I see our students' participation as something that makes the Ministry and country proud and it is in line with the School High Performance Sports Development Plan approved by the Cabinet Committee on Sports Development on July 31," Hishammuddin said.

"Their participation in the championship is also very significant in the Ministry's efforts to develop football among youths in the country," he said.

He hoped that with the announcement, the players would be able to focus on the tournament without thinking about SPM examinations they were supposed to sit.

"I pray for the team, especially the students involved, to succeed and lift the country's image internationally," he said.

WHY DON'T THEY THOUGHT ABOUT IT FROM THE VERY BEGINNING RATHER THAN INTERUPTING THEIR TRAINING....... NOW THE CAN BE MORE FOCUS......

Malaysian National Team Jerseys

2007-09-30T00:09:00.000+08:00

Interested in having a Malaysian national team football jerseys ? Go to this site

http://www.football-shirts.co.uk/malaysia-shirt.html

Psychologist To Help Malaysia Revive Fortunes

2007-09-29T23:27:00.000+08:00

The Malaysian national football team is to turn to a psychologist in a bid to revive its ailing fortunes.

The team lost all three games at July’s Asian Cup and new coach B. Sathianathan, who replaced the sacked Norizan Bakar, is hoping that the psychologist, who will be joined on the staff by a full-time masseur, can make a difference.

Malaysia are preparing for next month’s 2010 World Cup qualifier against Bahrain.

“This is the first time we are requesting for a full time psychologist and masseur for the national team,"Sathianathan told The Star.

"It is important we have them on board all the time during our practice sessions and friendly matches. We have to be well equipped in all aspects of the game – be it mental or physical – if we are going to excel.” .

p.s : I don't think that this is something new .............................

Malaysia may have to play in AFC U-19 meet after all

2007-09-27T14:15:00.000+08:00

By ERIC SAMUEL

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia may have to field a team after all in the qualifying rounds of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Under-19 tournament in China from Nov 6-18.

On Wednesday, FAM secretary general Datuk Azzudin Ahmad said Malaysia would withdraw from the tournament because of the absence of eight key players, who have to sit for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations, beginning on Nov 12.

But it is learnt that the FAM are left with not much choice but to fulfil their commitment to play in the age-group tournament.

The FAM deputy president, Datuk Redzuan Tan Sri Sheikh Ahmad, who is also the team manager, said he would have a discussion with coach K. Rajagopal at the Wisma FAM in Kelana Jaya today before making a final decision.

“We have not submitted an official letter of withdrawal to the AFC,” he said yesterday.

However, he said they were disappointed with the AFC for changing the dates for the competition, which was initially scheduled for Oct 31-Nov 11.

“Our appeal has been rejected. From what I have heard, they (AFC) changed the dates because they were unable to get match officials. This is not right and professional of them. They have to be sensitive to the affairs of the participating teams as well,” said Redzuan.

The AFC director of communications, Clare Kenny Tipton, said that they learnt of Malaysia's withdrawal from newspaper reports.

“As far as we are concerned, they (FAM) have not withdrawn,” she said.
Tipton added that the AFC had sent a reminder to the FAM that tomorrow was the deadline to submit the registration forms of players.

“Anyway, a team who withdraw from the tournament have to face the consequences. We will refer the matter to the disciplinary committee,” she said.

The national Under-19 team are in training at the Wisma FAM in Kelana Jaya and they are scheduled to go to Singapore for a series of warm-up matches against S-League sides next month.

Rajagopal assembled the team at the beginning of the year and they had played in two international tournaments – an Under-21 championships in Brunei in March and the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Under-19 tournament in Hanoi in August. They were the runners-up in the Asean tournament.

In the AFC qualifying tournament, Malaysia have beeen drawn in Group F with China, South Korea, Macau, Timor Leste and Singapore.

Source : The STAR

p.s : It always been our culture to put ahead studies that sports is it ?

National coach Sathianathan wants to re-introduce back-up squad

2007-09-20T23:12:00.000+08:00

Saturday September 15, 2007

By ERIC SAMUEL

PETALING JAYA: The FA of Malaysia (FAM) are planning to revive the “back-up squad” for the national team.

Newly appointed national coach B. Sathianathan said it was time to re-introduce the “B” team, which was first initiated in the 70’s.
“We badly need a platform for the back-up squad players before they get to graduate into the senior team,” said Sathianathan yesterday.

He said the decision to bring back the “B” team was needed to ensure a continuous flow of promising players to be picked for the senior team.

“We will need to have a new set of coaching staff for the back-up squad as well. They will also have their own calendar of events, preparation matches and tournaments to provide them with the right kind of exposure before they gradually gain their place into the senior team,” said Sathianathan yesterday.

At present, the national Under-23 squad preparing for the Korat SEA Games in December has become the core of the new-look national team. This is following their success in winning the Merdeka tournament last month.

Sathianathan said the Malaysian boys are generally late bloomers and they need a proper avenue like the back-up squad to build them up for the future.

“By having the senior and back-up squad we will have a bigger pool of players.
“We can keep tabs on their progress and also to keep the senior team players on their toes,” said Sathianathan, who was also a former national “B” team player in the 70’s. Then, Sathianathan was under the guidance of M. Chandran and Abdul Rahman Ibrahim.

The national Under-23 squad, which will form the core of the new national team have four senior players for the World Cup qualifiers. After that, the Under-23 squad will get cracking for the SEA Games in Korat where they aim to win a gold medal. Malaysia last won the gold in 1989.

Sathianathan said the back-up squad is expected to take shape by this year.
“I will oversee both the senior and back-up squads because I need to synchronise the coaching methods,” said Sathianathan.

He said the other youth teams from the national Under-21 and below age groups would be under the charge of K. Rajagopal and his coaching staff.

“We will all work as a team for a common goal,” said Sathianathan.

The national team will report for centralised training at the Wisma FAM in Kelana Jaya on Monday.

Malaysia will open their pre-World Cup campaign against Bahrain away on Oct 21 before playing the return leg at home on Oct 28.

Source : STARonline

DATUK AZZUDDIN TAKES OVER

2007-09-19T11:51:00.000+08:00

17th Sept 2007 – Datuk Azzuddin Ahmad takes over the helm of the general secretary of the FA of Malaysia (FAM) effective today.

The former national striker was already in office this morning to begin his reconnoiter exercise in assessing the existing administrative landscape of the national body.

“For this week and probably after, it is important that I get all the facts of how things are with the national association, so I will have to go into the details of what is within the FAM,” said Datuk Azzuddin.

“It is a little premature to say at this time what I will do and what I will not because before I can do anything, I will have to see Tuanku President His Royal Highness Sultan Ahmad Shah first.

“I believe that we are all here for the same reason and that is for the betterment of football in the country. And it is for that reason alone, we should keep all other sentiments aside and work towards that goal.”

Datuk Azzuddin has been appointed to the post of general secretary of the FAM following the recent elections of the new office-bearers of the national body for the term 2007-2010.

The post was left vacant following the decision of Dato’ Seri Dr. Ibrahim Saad not to renew his contract.

Datuk Azzuddin is no stranger to Malaysian football where apart from being a former player, he was also a former secretary of the Armed Forces FA and had also served as the President.

He was also at one time the chairman for the FAM Disciplinary Board and also the chairman for the FAM Referee Committee.

Prior to his departure from the national body, Datuk Azzuddin also served as the team manager for the national Under-20 side which played in the Asian Football Championship (AFC) U20 Youth Championship when Malaysia played host in 2004.

p.s ; found out this morning that the organisation chart of FAM has not been updated in their website........

KJ have baby boy on first day of Ramadan

2007-09-14T11:22:00.000+08:00

Deputy President of Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and Umno Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin and his wife Nori Abdullah became proud parents of a baby boy on the first day of Ramadan.

Nori, only daughter of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, gave birth to the 3.3kg baby at the Pantai Medical Centre at 1.25pm.

“Alhamdulillah (praise be to Allah) for blessing us with a healthy baby in this holy month of Ramadan. Both mother and child are healthy and doing well,” Khairy said.

On the name of the baby, Khairy said: “We have a shortlist. It will be decided very soon.”

Commenting on who the baby looked like, Khairy quipped, “Thank God, my son looks like his mama and not like me.”

NEW MEMBER IN THE FAMILY, NEW INSPIRATION...........

Khairy Jamaluddin - wants state FAs to work closer with FAM

2007-09-11T12:13:00.000+08:00

HE is the youngest deputy president ever to be appointed to the FA of Malaysia, but Khairy Jamaluddin has assured football fans that changes will happen given time but he wants state FAs to work closer with the national body.

Khairy, 31, the president of MyTeam, received 100 per cent support from the 45 delegates to lead FAM into a new era together with the experienced Datuk Redzuan Sheikh Ahmad, who is also a deputy president.

"I am honoured that the states have nominated me, but it is a call to work and improve the football," said Khairy yesterday.

"While people think it is suicidal to be involved in football, it is about time we stepped forward to do what we can and contribute."

Khairy is certain that changes will take place but he is adamant that state football associations and FAM work closer to bridge any existing gaps.

"We want to be more responsive to the needs of the states and understand what they are going through. We also want to get an opinion from them as far as fixtures are concerned so that national team priority is also taken seriously," he added

"Many states are disappointed with the way the competition went this year and we don’t want this to happen again. Also, and there are housekeeping matters that need to be resolved."

Khairy resigned as an independent member of FAM in July when Tengku Abdullah Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah resigned, when he was asked why he resigned, he said: "Tengku Abdullah is the one who brought me into football and appointed me to FAM, so it is only right that I follow suit when he resigned, I too resigned.

"Since then many people have been talking but no one wants to come forward and do what is right.

"I have taken up the challenge, and if I don’t perform then I will leave. It is all about working together and getting it right."

Source NSTonline

Young blood, new ideas, but he's also a politician........

Can he deliver ?

What if he got nominated for the upcoming election....Will he let go the post ?

New faces swept the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) Congress

2007-09-10T12:18:00.000+08:00

EXCEPT for the president’s and one deputy president’s posts, new faces swept the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) Congress which was held at Menara Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah, who has led the Association since 1984, was retained unopposed and will continue to lead the FAM till 2010.

While incumbent deputy president Datuk Redzuan Sheikh Ahmad also won unopposed, MyTeam president Khairy Jamaluddin is the new second deputy president. He takes over the post left vacant by Tengku Abdullah Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah.

Meanwhile, Datuk Raja Ahmad Zainuddin Raja Haji Omar lost in the vice-president’s race when he managed just 24 votes.

The four new vice-presidents are Datuk Che Mat Jusoh from Terengganu (45 votes), Kelentan’s Affendi Hamzah (30), Datuk Gulzar Mohd Nor from Sarawak (26), and Ahmad Mohammad from Johor (28). Raja Ahmad has been a vice-president since 1998.

Ahmad Shah has informed the candidates and members that he wants everyone to work more responsibly to improve the standard of football in the country.

While expressing regret at the state Malaysian football is in presently, Sultan Ahmad Shah strongly believes it can and will rise again.

"I am saddened with our 156th ranking in the world and our poor performance at the Asian Cup, which means there is a lot that needs to be done," said Sultan Ahmad Shah.

"All must work together to ensure that Malaysian football will rise again and I will see to it."

Sultan Ahmad Shah thanked previous deputy president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah, who resigned after the Asian Cup debacle, for his services while with FAM.

"Tengku Abdullah is great leader. He has spent his time and money towards helping Malaysian football and he is the architect of the modern game in this country. I would like to thank him for his contribution," added Sultan Ahmad Shah, who also took the opportunity to thank out-going vice-president Datuk Anifah Aman for his contribution.

"I hope he will continue to contribute to football development."

Datuk Anifah did not seek re-election as he was adhering to the cabinet committee’s call that ministers and deputy ministers should not hold any position in sports associations.

The FAM president stressed that he is back in the country and will give his undivided attention to football.

"I want to make sure everything goes according to plan."

Right after yesterday’s 44th Congress the newly elected members attended a short Exco meeting that was called by the president.

It was decided in the meeting that Sultan Ahmad Shah will be the chairman of finance and also chairman of the national team, while Khairy will be the deputy chairman of national team and chairman of MSL Sdn Bhd. Datuk Che Mat Jusoh will be the new competitions committee chairman replacing Datuk Raja Ahmad.

A general secretary has yet to be appointed and Sultan Ahmad Shah said: "Give me some time, I will make the decision soon."

In the meantime Datuk Redzuan will still be the acting general secretary.

Source : NST online

New faces, same president, BETTER FATE ??

Deputy Premier of Malaysia Visits Asia Football Confederation ( AFC )

2007-09-08T00:00:00.000+08:00

KUALA LUMPUR: AFC President Mohamed bin Hammam welcomed YAB Dato’ Seri Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, and YB Dato’ Seri Azalina binti Othman Said, Minister of Youth and Sports, to AFC House for their first visit to the headquarters of the Asian Football Confederation.

The visit marked the development of closer relations between Asia’s football government body and the Malaysian Government.

Following a warm welcome, AFC officials took the opportunity to present AFC’s development programmes including ‘Vision Asia’, the Grassroots & Youth Programme, and the AFC Professional Leagues project.

The Vision Asia presentation gave an overview of the project focusing on football association governance, marketing, competitions, clubs and overall stakeholder management. The Grassroots & Youth briefing focused on the necessary areas of development, and the systematic programme which AFC is implementing as part of Vision Asia.

The final presentation on the professionalisation of leagues and clubs in Asia outlined the criteria for countries to follow when re-launching their national leagues, including governance, facilities, community relationships, professionalism, marketing and media.

The Deputy Prime Minister and the AFC President agreed on the powerful role of football, as not only a sports concept, but also a tool to improve society and benefit communities.

Commenting following the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister said, “I was very impressed with the programme. I have always emphasised on development. In Malaysia, we have the people, the enthusiasm and the resources, but we do not have the guidance, facilities, professional coaching and career path.”

Bin Hammam invited Malaysia to join the Vision Asia programme, as ‘Vision Malaysia’. YAB Dato’ Seri Najib confirmed that this proposal will be taken to the next cabinet meeting on sports for further discussion. “We will look for a way to join hands with AFC,” he stated.

WE WILL SEE WHAT PROGRAMMES WILL TAKE PLACE AND HOW IT WILL EFFECT MALAYSIAN FOOTBALL AS A WHOLE .....................................

Blue Jerseys To Win

2007-09-05T12:11:00.000+08:00

A supertitious friend of mine said that Malaysia Football Team won games when they used their blue jerseys instead of traditional yellow. Coincidence or what ??

Spirited Malaysia are the champions

2007-08-30T11:56:00.000+08:00

By ERIC SAMUEL

SHAH ALAM: Malaysia are champions of the Merdeka Tournament again after a lapse of 14 years.

In an exciting final of the 39th edition of the tournament played in front of 40,000 fans at the Shah Alam Stadium last night, Malaysia defeated defending champions Myanmar 3-1. It was the 11th time that Malaysia won the title in the series.

Myanmar had no answer to a spirited Malaysia and conceded goals to Mohd Zaquan Adha and Safee Sali in the 12th and 60th minute respectively. And Aung Myo Thant put the ball into his own net in the 56th.

Substitute Tun Tun Win pulled a goal back for Myanmar in the 73rd minute. The match also saw Myanmar reduced to 10 men with the sacking of Kyaw Khing Win in the 87th minute.

The victory for the national Under-23 boys preparing for the Korat SEA Games in December was sweet revenge for the 1-2 defeat by Myanmar in the group stage.

Malaysia started without influential skipper Mohd Shukor Adan, who was down with a groin injury, leaving only one senior player in the side – centreback Norhafiz Zamani Misbah.
In contrast, Myanmar were at full strength with all three seniors in their ranks – skipper Soe Myat Min, striker Yan Paing and goalkeeper Aung Aung Oo.

Malaysia got off to a lively start and took the lead just 12 minutes into the match. Mohd Zaquan initiated the move, relaying the ball to Safee Sali. Zaquan then received the return ball inside the box to beat Aung Oo.

Malaysia went 2-0 up when defender Myo Thant turned a cross from Safee into his own goal in the 56th minute. The match was as good as in Malaysia's hands after Safee coolly turned past his marker to slot the ball into goal four minutes later.

Tun Win went on target in the 73rd minute and Myanmar caused some anxious moments for Malaysia until the final whistle.

Myanmar: Aung Aung Oo, Min Thu, Kyaw Khing Win, Moe Win, Khin Maung Lwin, Aung Myo Thant, Zaw Htet Aung (Tun Tun Win), Yan Paing, Soe Myat Min, Myo Min Tun, Zaw Lynn Tun.
Malaysia: Syed Adney Syed Hussin, Azi Shahril Azmi, Norhafiz Zamani Misbah, Mohd Aidil Zafuan, Mohd Zaquan Adha, Norfarhan Mohd (Amirulhadi Zainal), Mohd Khyril Muhymeen, Mohd Daudso Jamaluddin, Safee Sali, Sumardi Hajalan, Norsharul Idlan Talaha (Mohd Syamsol Sabtu).

Source : The STAR online

Cheers for Merdeka Day ... Just Wondering how the players have to be defensive at the last 20 minutes of the games......Next .....SEA GAMES , KORAT

Merdeka Cup: Malaysia To Meet Myanmar In Final

2007-08-29T11:55:00.000+08:00

The final of the Merdeka Cup will take place between hosts Malaysia and defending champions Myanmar.

Malaysia defeated rivals Singapore 3-1 and will face Myanmar in the final for the second year in a row.

In the semi-final, Mohd Khyril Muhymeen opened the scoring for Malaysia after 12 minutes, while Mohd Safee bagged a brace with a goal in each half.

In the other last four clash, Myanmar defeated Zimbabwe 3-1.

Yan Paing scored after 32 and 58 minutes. Zimbabwe pulled a goal back in the 52 minutes but Yazar Win Thein sealed the win with two minutes remaining.

Final will be played tonight (29/08/2007). What will be Malaysian chances ?

AN EARLY MERDEKA (INDEPENDENCE) DAY GIFT ?????

Merdeka Cup: Myanmar In The Semis

2007-08-24T19:04:00.000+08:00

Myanmar became the first team to book a place in the semi-finals of the Merdeka Cup after defeating competition hosts Malaysia 2-1.

The defending champions also defeated Lesotho 1-0 earlier in the week and now have six points from the opening two Group A games.

Aung Myo Thant gave Myanmar the lead three minutes before the break and five minutes after, Yan Paing made it two. Adha Abdul Razak reduced the arrears with 20 minutes remaining but Myanmar took the three points.

In the day’s other game Lesotho defeated Laos 3-1 to move level on points with Malaysia with one game remaining –the two meet on matchday three.

Laos were three goals down before the half hour and ended the game with nine men as Somsanouk Lovanxay and Kovanh Namthavixay were sent off.

WILL THIS MALAYSIAN TEAM WILL HAVE THE SAME FATE AS EARLIER MALAYSIA NATIONAL TEAMS IN EARLIER TOURNAMENTS ?

2007-08-19T21:26:00.000+08:00

NEWS 1

Malaysian rookie goalkeeper Syed Adney Syed Hussein (pic) is game for the big time.

The lanky Selangor custodian, who will turn 21 in November, has set his sights on playing in the English Premier League. He will get his first big break when he attends trials with Middlesbrough sometime in August.

NEWS 2

PSV Eindhoven, who have one of the best youth development programmes in the world, have offered Mohd Asraruddin Putra Omar a two-week training stint with the possibility of the defender joining the club’s youth programme.

"We saw player No 3 (Asraruddin) play against us and the match before and we came away impressed," said PSV coach Peter Dekkers."We would like to take him to PSV for a few weeks and see more of him in action. "We have spoken to Jonathan Price (chairman of the Gifted Group) to assist us in getting the player to PSV as soon as possible."

Asraruddin, a leftback in the Under-19 squad in the CYC, is the team’s vice-skipper and took over the captain’s armband from the injured Bunyamin Omar in the match against PSV.

In the absence of Bunyamin for the PSV game, Asraruddin moved into the centreback position and handled himself superbly.In fact, the Kedah-born player is capable of playing in either the leftback or centreback positions. A former student at the Bukit Jalil Sports School, Asraruddin played a crucial role in helping Malaysia qualify for the AFC Under-20 Championship for the first time in over 20 years.

MALAYSIA ARE NOT SHORT OF TALENTS AFTER ALL !!

Matter of pride - Article from STAR

2007-08-19T00:48:00.000+08:00

Found this article in The STAR dated sometime in July. He sure got some points there........

Matter of pride

Malaysia played to form and did not disappoint critics that labeled the national team as certified cannon fodder. The apathy that has ruined our game and the growth of football in the other Asian Cup co-hosting nations says it all.

By NANTHA KUMAR

ANY DISCOURSE on Malaysian football will involve the trading of every conceivable limping joke – “running” does not apply here for obvious reasons – stocked up for at least the last 10 years. The most petrifying aspect of it all is that the gags have blurred into facts.

The solitary hope of seeing Malaysia in a major international tournament rests with the nation's eagerness and ability to host it – as is the case with the AFC Asian Cup 2007 – and it is a reality that the only professional football here is of that beamed in from European football leagues.

The President of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has claimed that he had brought in millions in funding during his nearly 30-year reign but omitted to mention that his presidency eerily coincided with the decline of Malaysian football. The President's assertion, however, neatly summed up the narrow mentality and cultural bankruptcy that pervades Malaysian sports – it is all and always about the money. Allied to our unique bodoh sombong psyche – clueless but yet contemptuous – that is embedded in almost every layer of Malaysian life, it makes for a destructive union.

In short, our football mirrors our values. Sloganeering and posturing are above substance and purpose and it would be pointless to demand our footballers to invest their heart and soul into their play – as they belatedly did in the defeat to Iran – when there is no danger of them leaving the comfort zone that they occupy. When our players cruise into the training ground in their swanky cars and pontificate presumptuously of playing in Europe – as one of them ludicrously declared before the Asian Cup – the self-perpetuated notion that they have “arrived” would not be out of place.

This is the truth: none of the current batch of players in the national team would hack it in the national leagues of Vietnam,

Indonesia or Thailand. It is not that we are bereft of talented players or coaches: 20-year-old Titus James Palani has been in France since he was 12 to pursue his ambition of becoming an outstanding professional while former international Lim Teong Kim is scheduled to return home as one of the two coaches of Bayern Munich's Under-19 side which will compete in the Champions Youth Cup next month.

Both individuals have prospered not because of but in spite of the festering football environment here. This is a nation in which the duty of talent spotting has been abdicated to reality television episodes and when a team consisting of amateurs sourced from the programme and merged with semi-professionals are good enough to compete in the Malaysian league, what does it say about our football?

This is not to knock the popular television show – which is projected to roll out a similar version in Indonesia – but that is another way of looking at the football quagmire and ask: how serious are we about the development of football?

Not as much as our Asian Cup co-hosts. Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia have a larger pool of footballers to select from by virtue of the size of their population. All three nations share comparable physical, economic, social and cultural characteristics with Malaysia and have lagged – with the exception of Indonesia – behind us three decades ago.

Unlike Malaysia, however, all three do not have the range of facilities and funding available here where, unfortunately, international standards are confined to structures and not players.

Vietnam are the model after which Malaysia should emulate. The spirited manner in which they shocked holders Japan into conceding a goal before succumbing to the inevitable defeat was an example of the benefits of sustained growth in football and faith. While their team, comprising U-23 players are deficient in tactical maturity (an asset that will be gained after a number of years) – they do not fall short of aggression and self-belief. Beneath this observation is a concerted effort by the Vietnam football authorities and government to embrace the modern game that had left them behind during and after the Vietnam War.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC)'s Vision Vietnam project and FIFA's Goal Project – both personally supervised by AFC President Mohamed bin Hammam – has connected experts in coaching, medicine, football administration and match officialdom plus marketing with the Vietnam Football Federation. The rewards are there to be seen: Vietnam participated in the AFC Under-20 Championship 2006 – beating Malaysia in their group – and are the only South East Asian nation in next month's final qualifying rounds for the Beijing Olympics 2008.

Indonesia are also beneficiaries of the Vision Asia scheme. A year ago, the AFC – on the advice and assistance of the Football Association of Indonesia – identified Bandung and Yogjakarta as the centres that will foster an improved batch of footballers to eventually succeed the proud heroes of Asian Cup 2007. In the last tournament, Indonesia finished third in a group that also featured finalists China and semi-finalists Bahrain. Three years ago, Indonesia were thumped 3-1 by Bahrain; this year, it their turn to repay in kind with a 2-1 win in the Group D opener.

Thailand shares the same problems as their co-hosts. Dwindling interest in the domestic game, disorganisation and distrust of the football league and the low fortunes of the national team have all merged to create a diversion to televised European club competitions. The wild fame of the Premier League suggests that the interest in the game lies dormant and the Football Association of Thailand are earnest in building on a spate of commendable performances of the national team.

Thailand were the runners-up in the Asean Football Championship 2007 (previously known as the Tiger Cup), they made it to the last eight of the Doha Asian Games 2006 and have been the SEA Games gold medalists since 1993 in a remarkable seven-year dominance.

The establishment of the National Football Training Centre last year – with the help of football's world governing body FIFA – is also a positive step in further growing the sports and providing an avenue for youngsters and coaches to be urbanised.

It is no longer smart or relevant to knock the FAM – the President's missionary zeal to stubbornly stay on and battle gallantly to raise domestic standards is not exactly laudable.

But when his first act is to convene a task force consisting individuals who are not blessed with robust clear-sightedness and a glimmer reflective self-righteousness, it strains the limit of the laughable. We should leave the FAM to their own devise, with this single request: please extend the inquest to about a month from now to cover another debacle-in-waiting – the Merdeka Tournament.

Copyright © 1995-2007 Star Publications (Malaysia)

By the way : where is TITUS JAMES PALANI now ???

Malaysia Face Bahrain Hurdle In 2010 World Cup Qualifying Round

2007-08-15T18:43:00.000+08:00

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 6 (Bernama)

The Malaysian national team that suffered an embarrassing outing in the Asian Cup recently, may face a similar fate after being drawn against Bahrain in the Asian Zone first qualifying round for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

In the draw held at the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) House in Bukit Jalil today, Malaysia, ranked 154 in the FIFA world ranking and 31 in Asia, open their campaign in an away tie against Bahrain who are ranked 88, on Oct 8, and face the Middle-Eastern country here on Oct 28.

"Though the fixtures clash with the fasting month, we do not foresee any problems," AFC assistant general-secretary Carlo K. Nohra told reporters after the draw here today.He said according to the AFC competition rules, matches would start only two hours after breaking fast.Nohra said Iraq, Afghanistan and Palestine would be allowed to choose their home ground venues because of prevailing unstable conditions in their respective countries.

In the 2006 World Cup qualifying round, Malaysia lost all their group matches against Hong Kong, China and Kuwait.On the other hand, Bahrain qualified to play in the play-off stage against CONCACAF representative Trinidad and Tobago for a final slot but lost 1-2.Out of the 43 Asian countries involved in the qualifying rounds, Australia, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Japan and Iran received byes for the first round based on their performance in the last World Cup.And from the 38 remaining countries who compete in the first round, 11 winners automatically join the five for the Asian Zone final round, while eight other teams play against each other for four more slots.

Asia will have four confirmed slots for the World Cup final while the fifth team will be involved in a play-off for one more slot against the CONCACAF representative.

ROUND 1 Fixtures (Oct 8):Pakistan vs Iraq, Uzbekistan vs Chinese Taipei, Thailand vs Macau, Sri Lanka vs Qatar, China vs Myanmar, Bhutan vs Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan vs Jordan, Vietnam vs UAE, Bahrain vs Malaysia, Timor Leste vs Hong Kong, Syria vs Afghanistan, Yemen vs Maldives, Bangladesh vs Tajikistan, Mongolia vs North Korea, Oman vs Nepal, Palestine vs Singapore, Lebanon vs India, Cambodia vs Turkmenistan, Guam vs Indonesia.-- BERNAMA

Another hurdles and poor outing for Malaysian team ?

Champions Youth Cup - Malaysia Hold Mighty Chelsea To A Goalless Draw

2007-08-11T10:57:00.000+08:00

KUCHING, Aug 10 (Bernama) -- Malaysia held Chelsea to a goalless draw in their second Group D match in the Champions Youth Cup (CYC) soccer tournament at the Sarawak Stadium here tonight.

Buoyed by a vociferous 10,000 home crowd they kept the marauding Chelsea players at bay with Malaysian keeper Khairul Fahmie Che Mat clearly the hero of the night as he worked doubly hard to deny the visitors.

Malaysia on the other hand could have carved out a victory against the famous English club but were let down by poor finishing.

Malaysia next meet PSV Eindhoven in their last group match and need a big win against the Dutch side and hope Chelsea fall to Bayern Munich by a wide margin to advance to the quarter-final.

After today's matches Malaysia and Chelsea have a point each while PSV have three points. The other team in the group Bayern Munich have already qualified for the quarter-final as they have collected six points from two wins, against Malaysia and PSV.

At the end of the match, the delighted crowd gave the home team a standing ovation for their gutsy performance.

After the match, Malaysia's coach Robert Alberts said the result was proof that Malaysia had what it took to play at the highest level.

"We have a realistic chance of qualifying for the quarter-final," said Alberts, who is also the FA of Malaysia (FAM) Technical Director.

On the other hand, Chelsea coach Paul Clement said poor finishing foiled their attempt to register their first win but promised the team would do better in their final group match.

In another match in Group A at the Darul Aman Stadium in Alor Star, Brazilian side CR Flamengo edged Arsenal 2-1 and remain in contention for the quarter-final.

Arsenal's Jay Simpson opened scoring in the 16th only to have it nullified two minutes later by Kayke Rodrigues, who went on to score a brace, his second in the 43rd minute.

-- BERNAMA

Another Good Sign For Malaysian Football ?

All THE BEST FOR THE BOYS !!

AFF Under 20 Youth Championship 2007 - Vietnam

2007-08-11T10:38:00.000+08:00

Group A: Malaysia, Singapore, Laos, Myanmar

Group B: Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Brunei

Final Results:

Aug 13: Vietnam vs Malaysia 1-0

3rd & 4th Place Results: August 13

Aug 13: Myanmar vs Thailand 0-2

Semi Final Stage Results:

Aug 07: Myanmar vs Vietnam 1-3, Malaysia vs Thailand 2-1

Group A Fixtures & Results:

Aug 01: Malaysia vs Singapore 3-0

Aug 01: Laos vs Myanmar 0-4

Aug 03: Malaysia vs Myanmar 1-2

Aug 03: Laos vs Singapore 2-1

Aug 05: Laos vs Malaysia 3-7

Aug 05: Singapore vs Myanmar 1-2

[Group A]

Teams	P	W	D	L	G	A	Pts
1. Myanmar *	3	3	0	0	8	2	9
2. Malaysia *	3	2	0	1	11	5	6
3. Laos	3	1	0	2	5	12	3
4. Singapore	3	0	0	3	2	7	0

Group B Fixtures & Results:

July 31: Cambodia vs Vietnam 0-4

July 31: Thailand vs Brunei 7-0

Aug 02: Vietnam vs Thailand 1-1

Aug 02: Cambodia vs Brunei 1-2

Aug 04: Thailand vs Cambodia 7-0

Aug 04: Brunei vs Vietnam 0-6

[Group B]

Teams	P	W	D	L	G	A	Pts
1. Thailand *	3	2	1	0	15	1	7
2. Vietnam *	3	2	1	0	11	1	7
3. Brunei	3	1	0	2	2	1	3
4. Cambodia	3	0	0	3	1	13	0

After all , are there sign of hope in Malaysian football ?

Jorvan Veiera - War-torn Iraq Coach

2007-07-31T19:49:00.000+08:00

Less than two months ahead of the 2007 AFC Asian Cup finals Viera was named coach of war-torn Iraq. Incredibly, he led Iraq to the 2007 Asian Cup title, upsetting reigonal heavyweights Saudi Arabia 1-0 in the final. The goal was scored by captain Younis Mahmoud. He immediately confirmed he would not be staying on in the role, citing his unwillingness to deal with the stresses brought about by a lack of organizational support.

After his two-month contract with Iraq expired, Vieira has been linked to the vacant coaching position with the Korea Republic. Australia are also believed to be interested in his services, with the expected resignation of Graham Arnold after their Asian Cup failure.

This same man was the coach of Malaysian under 20 team a few years back and was sacked for "non-performing". So, was it because of the coach, the player or mentality ? What is wrong with Malaysian football ?.......

Rajagopal: U-20 boys not likely to repeat AFF feat ( News From The STAR )

2007-07-31T12:00:00.000+08:00

This excerpt are from THE STAR

"By ERIC SAMUEL

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia will be hard pressed to get a podium finish in the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Under-20 championship in Vietnam from Aug 1-14.

Coach K. Rajagopal said it would be tough for his young charges with an average age of 18 to repeat the same feat when they finished runners-up to Myanmar in Palembang, Indonesia two years ago.

“It is a different set of players altogether and we cannot expect the same kind of results,” said a concerned Rajagopal yesterday.

He said the present team lacked international exposure. There are only a handful of experienced hands left in the squad led by midfielder's K. Gurusamy, Abdul Shukur Yusuf and striker Ahmad Fakri Saarani.

“These boys have not been playing international matches on a regular basis. We have to be realistic on that aspect even though personally the team have a lot of potential,” said Rajagopal of the team, which only featured at the Hassanal Bolkiah Tournament in Bandar Seri Begawan in February.

However, Rajagopal will be counting on the experience of the trio to provide guidance for the other players. The three had been regulars under Rajagopal and had also featured in his plans in last year’s AFC Under-20 Championship in India.

Malaysia have been drawn in Group A with Singapore, Laos, Myanmar and Brunei while the teams in Group B are Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines.

“Despite of what has been said about Malaysian football of late, our hope is still on the young ones. They are still eager to play for Malaysia and we should not destroy their hopes and dreams,” added Rajagopal, whose team will open their campaign against Singapore on Aug 1. "

Are'nt We Have To Be Positive and Confident at least For The Boys ?

MyKids football trials - Qualify for a trip to Manchester, UK

2007-07-30T00:13:00.001+08:00

Malaysian with kids, below 12, interested in football go to MyKids football trials - Qualify for a trip to Manchester, UK . Start early for better Malaysian Football...

Malaysia national football team

2007-07-29T22:54:00.000+08:00

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Malaysia national football team is the national team of Malaysia and is controlled by the Football Association of Malaysia. It has never qualified for the World Cup finals, although the team did qualify to play in the 1980 Olympics in Moscow. However, Malaysia did not take part after heeding a United States-led boycott of the Games due to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.

Previously, Malaysia's first Olympic appearance was in the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich. While suffering losses to hosts West Germany 0-3 and Morocco 0-6, Malaysia did beat the USA 3-0. The best years of Malaysian football were from the early 1970s to the early 1980s, during which time Malaysia and South Korea were the two main rivals in East Asia.

However, while South Korea have gone on to compete successfully on the world stage, Malaysia's competitiveness has declined. With Malaysian football no longer able to dominate even at South East Asian level, local football fans have turned their interests to foreign leagues in Europe.

The Malaysian national team are nicknamed the Tigers, as the tiger is a national symbol of Malaysia।

Trashing By China in Asian Football Championship (AFC)

2007-07-29T01:25:00.001+08:00