Malaysia coach Tan Cheng Hoe: 'We aim for a positive result against Thailand'

The last time Malaysia's caretaker head coach Tan Cheng Hoe arrived at Bangkok's Rajamangala Stadium, he departed with the sensation of a victor.

At that time, Malaysia held Thailand to a thrilling 2-2 draw in the second leg of the semifinals of the 2018 ASEAN Championship (now the ASEAN Hyundai Cup™). Tan Cheng Hoe was then the head coach of the Malaysian national team.

Although the match ended in a draw, the result allowed Malaysia to advance to the final thanks to the away goals rule. However, they later lost to Vietnam with a total score of 2-3 over two legs, missing the chance to win their second Southeast Asian championship in history.

"I'm very happy to be back here," the 58-year-old strategist, a former Malaysian international, shared ahead of the crucial match against Thailand in Group B.

"Eight years have passed since 2018, and many things have changed. However, the atmosphere and my emotions remain the same. The motivation and desire to contribute to the national team have never changed.

Hopefully, we can continue to achieve a positive result at Rajamangala Stadium. I cannot deny that the players are still not at their best physical condition. We haven't had adequate physical preparation due to the congested schedule."

Malaysia started the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 with two victories over Myanmar (2-1) and Laos (4-0), thereby holding a significant advantage in the race for the semifinals after being eliminated in the group stage at the previous edition in 2024.

Captain Paulo Josué has been the team's inspiration with three goals. Additionally, Mohamadou Sumareh, winger Pavithran Gunalan (who won the "Man of the Match" award against Laos), and newcomer Wan Kuzain have also contributed to strengthening Malaysia's squad.

Although experienced midfielder Endrick is sidelined due to a knee injury, Coach Tan Cheng Hoe remains confident that his players will continue to fight wholeheartedly for the national colors.

"We have great respect for Thailand. They are one of the strongest teams in Southeast Asia, possessing many experienced and technically skilled players. However, we are also here with the determination to achieve a positive result.

The understanding, cohesion, and coordinated movements of the players are improving with each match. Thailand may have an advantage because they have played one match less and are fresher. Nevertheless, I always remind the players not to fear any opponent."

Following a 5-0 victory over Laos in Vientiane a week ago, Thailand coach Anthony Hudson hopes that fans will fill Rajamangala Stadium as the hosts aim to maintain their dominance over Malaysia. In the 30-year history of the tournament, Thailand has won 9 out of 17 meetings between the two sides.

"This is a very special stadium, and the fans will be there to support the team. Everyone is eagerly looking forward to the match. I can confirm that the fans always give the players an extra percentage of energy, belief, and motivation to move forward. Their support is extremely important," the English manager said.

"We want to continue improving our playing style while enhancing the physical foundation of the players. The whole team is excited to play at home. When Thailand meets Malaysia at a stadium like Rajamangala, we always prepare for Malaysia to show their best form. They are a quality team, well-coached, and have made an impressive start to the tournament."