Mon Oct 14 06:42:46 UTC 2024: ## Young Blood Injects New Life into Harimau Malaya Ahead of New Zealand Friendly

**SEPANG, Oct 7** – Malaysian national team, Harimau Malaya, is set to face New Zealand in a friendly match on October 14th, and the squad boasts a fresh injection of youth, according to midfielder Mohammad Syamer Kutty Abba.

Head coach Pau Marti Vicente has called up three promising under-23 (U-23) players from Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) II and Selangor FC. These include Selangor goalkeeper Azim Al Amin Kamaruddin and two players from the national U-19 squad: goalkeeper Haziq Aiman Mohd Esa (JDT II) and Haykal Danish Mohd Haizon (Selangor U-23).

Syamer expressed confidence in the new dynamic this brings to the team. “This is a positive development, having both young and experienced players. It brings a new dynamic to the team, adding young talent to strengthen it,” he stated.

The friendly match against New Zealand serves as a crucial test ahead of the ASEAN Championship 2024 in December. “The goal is to win, and blending the team is crucial for this December,” added Syamer.

The match also presents an opportunity for other players to step up in the absence of team captain Dion Cools, who is unavailable due to family commitments. “We have many players who can fill his role, and it gives others a chance to step up and add something to the team,” said Syamer.

The last time Harimau Malaya faced New Zealand was in 2006, resulting in two losses for Malaysia. This upcoming encounter promises to be a thrilling test for the newly invigorated Malaysian squad.

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