Malaysia's World Cup Qualification Bid Faces Hurdles: Lack of Preparation Raises Concerns

The national football squad may face challenges in the 2026 World Cup/2027 Asian Cup second rounds qualifiers against Oman on March 21 due to a lack of preparation. Local pundits including Datuk Pekan Ramli and former head coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee expressed concerns about the players’ fitness emphasizing the importance of adequate preparation.

The absence of pre-season training for the 2024/25 Malaysia League until May has raised worries about the team’s readiness. Pekan Ramli stressed the need for at least a draw in Muscat and a home win against Oman to secure qualification for the third round.

Former coach Ong Kim Swee recommended playing at least one friendly match to enhance squad readiness. As the leaders of Group D, Malaysia has a three points lead having won against Kyrgyzstan and Taiwan. Oman led by new coach Jaroslav Silhavy is determined to improve after a disappointing run in the 2023 Asian Cup.

The Malaysian squad is expected to engage in closed-door warm-up matches during centralised training although no official announcement has been made.