Malaysia Ignore Clash With Indonesia, Tan Cheng Hoe Sets Focus on Bangladesh

Malaysia refuse to be trapped in the shadow of a duel against Indonesia. Coach Tan Cheng Hoe stressed that his squad's full concentration is on the opening match of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 against Bangladesh, before facing the hosts at Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno on 28 September 2026.

At a press conference in Jakarta on Thursday (24/9/2026), Tan said a meeting with Indonesia always carries its own prestige. However, he considers the opening match against Bangladesh the foundation that will determine his team's direction in the new FIFA-run tournament. "We are looking at every aspect carefully for this match," he said.

The stance reflects a pragmatic approach Malaysia have rarely shown in recent years. Instead of being swept up in the euphoria of regional rivalry, the team nicknamed Harimau Malaya chose to settle the nearest business first. Indonesia themselves will begin their campaign against Singapore, creating group dynamics that demand consistency from the first minute.

Tan Cheng Hoe acknowledged that facing Indonesia is always a special match. He even said Indonesia play with the character of true champions. "We are ready to face Indonesia, but will focus entirely on tomorrow's match," he said. The statement underlines that Malaysia do not want to lose momentum before the big clash.

The final target set by FAM is a challenge in itself. Tan called the tournament a mental and tactical test, especially because FIFA's new format demands quick adaptation. He stressed the importance of getting a positive result in the opening match to maintain the players' rhythm and confidence.

"We are excited to take part in the FIFA ASEAN Cup and hope to get a positive result for the upcoming match," said Tan Cheng Hoe.

For Indonesia, Tan's remarks signal that Malaysia will not be easily provoked by external pressure. The step-by-step approach Malaysia are applying could serve as a mirror for the Indonesia national team, who are also required to focus on Singapore before thinking about the heated duel at GBK. The quality of preparation and the psychological management of players will be the difference in this tournament.

More broadly, the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 is a proving ground for Southeast Asian football under the FIFA umbrella. The new format and the presence of strong teams make every match a potential trap. Malaysia, with their final target, know that one small mistake could ruin the whole plan.

The question is, can Malaysia stay focused as the pressure of the duel against Indonesia draws closer? Or will the opening match against Bangladesh decide whether their final ambition survives?