Tan Cheng Hoe Wary of Indonesia, Malaysia Focus on Physical Recovery Ahead of Group A Clash
Baca dalam 60 detik
- Pelatih interim Malaysia Tan Cheng Hoe mengalihkan perhatian ke pemulihan fisik pemain usai kemenangan 3-0 atas Bangladesh.
- Cheng Hoe menilai masih ada celah dalam penguasaan bola dan transisi permainan yang harus diperbaiki sebelum menghadapi Indonesia.
- Penyerang naturalisasi anyar Manuel Hidalgo dan Bergson da Silva siap tampil tanpa beban meski bermain di kandang lawan.
Malaysia interim coach Tan Cheng Hoe is wasting no time preparing his squad for the crucial match against hosts Indonesia in the continuation of Group A on Monday (28/9/2026). Despite having just secured a convincing 3-0 win over Bangladesh, Cheng Hoe stressed that his main focus now is restoring the players' physical condition and devising the right strategy to steal points at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK).
The win over Bangladesh is indeed valuable capital for Harimau Malaya. However, Cheng Hoe realizes that facing Indonesia in front of tens of thousands of supporters is no easy task. He has instructed his players not to get complacent and to stay grounded. "My main focus right now is getting the players' physical condition back to optimal readiness and recovery. At the same time, the medical team is also monitoring and evaluating who is ready to be fielded," Cheng Hoe said after a training session.
Beyond the physical aspect, the Malaysian coaching staff also conducted an in-depth analysis of the team's performance in the opening match. Cheng Hoe believes there are still several shortcomings to fix, especially in ball possession and transitions. "We need to analyze how we played against Bangladesh and, at the same time, break down Indonesia's style of play. We are very ready to compete," he said.
High confidence also comes from Malaysia's new naturalized forward, Manuel Hidalgo. The 30-year-old stressed that his team will not be intimidated by Indonesia's reputation or the pressure from the home supporters. "We are not afraid. We will play freely and give our best," he said. Hidalgo said he is proud to represent Malaysia after a long career in the country's league. He is committed to repaying the trust placed in him with his best performances.
The opening match was also a special moment for Brazil-born forward Bergson da Silva. The 35-year-old striker, who has played for Johor Darul Ta'zim since 2021, officially obtained citizenship and FIFA eligibility in mid-September. His debut was immediately marked by Malaysia's third goal against Bangladesh. The presence of Bergson and Hidalgo adds to Malaysia's attacking options, which are predicted to trouble Indonesia's defense.
For Indonesia, this match is a test in itself. The team under its new coach must be able to capitalize on the full support of the fans to achieve the best possible result. A win over Malaysia would be important capital to keep their hopes of advancing from the group stage alive. However, Malaysia comes with the momentum of a big win and high spirits. The duel between the two Southeast Asian teams is predicted to be tight and full of tension.
It will be interesting to see how Cheng Hoe's strategy neutralizes Indonesia's strengths. Will he apply high pressing from the start or play patiently and rely on counterattacks? Meanwhile, Indonesia is under pressure to perform dominantly at home. The big question is whether Malaysia can steal points at SUGBK, or whether Indonesia will run up the score. The answer will be clear on Monday night.
