Jakarta:Interim national head coach Tan Cheng Hoe expressed optimism about Malaysia's performance in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, despite the team falling short of reaching the final.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia delivered a convincing display throughout the group stage, culminating in a commanding 6-0 victory against Singapore in their final Group A Division 1 match at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium. However, Indonesia's 9-2 win over Bangladesh at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta allowed them to edge out Malaysia for a spot in the final.

Both Malaysia and Indonesia ended the group stage with seven points and an identical goal difference, but the Garuda squad advanced based on a greater number of goals scored, netting 11 compared to Malaysia's nine.

Cheng Hoe acknowledged the disappointment of not making it to the final but emphasized the team's accomplishments, including two wins and one draw, with nine goals scored and none conceded. He praised the team's ability to maintain clean sheets and emphasized the importance of continuing to build confidence and understanding among the players.

Cheng Hoe also stressed the need to focus on future challenges, expressing confidence in the team's potential for upcoming matches and a desire for positive results. Malaysia's campaign began with a 3-0 win over Bangladesh, followed by a goalless draw against Indonesia, and concluded with their emphatic win over Singapore.

Malaysia is set to compete against the Group B runners-up in the third-place playoff, while Indonesia will face Thailand in the final. Both matches are scheduled to take place at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium next Monday.