ASEAN Cup 2026: Malaysia Suffers Squad Losses Ahead of Crucial Semifinal Qualification Decider

Interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe confirmed that midfielder Endrick dos Santos and right-back Jimmy Raymond will not be able to continue playing in the remaining stages of the tournament. The absence of these two players will leave Malaysia's coaching staff with fewer options ahead of the upcoming clash with the Philippines at the Kuala Lumpur Stadium on the evening of August 8.

According to Tan Cheng Hoe, calling up replacement players at this point is considered very difficult, as players outside the national team squad are currently focused on preparing for the new season with their respective clubs.

Tan Cheng Hoe stated: "We are facing difficulties in calling up additional players because the clubs are also in their pre-season training period. However, we hope that the current players will maintain their focus and be in the best physical condition for the match against the Philippines."

With a spot in the semifinals not yet fully secured, Malaysia's coaching staff must find the most effective solutions from the available squad. Currently, the "Malayan Tigers" are aiming to secure all three points against the Philippines to decide their own fate in advancing to the next round.

After three matchdays, Malaysia sits second in Group B with 6 points, level with Myanmar but ahead on head-to-head record following a 2-1 victory over them.

However, the race for a semifinal berth is far from over. While Malaysia faces the Philippines, Myanmar will be up against a major challenge when they take on Thailand, the team considered the strongest in the group, at the Rajamangala Stadium.

Thailand currently leads Group B with a perfect 9 points from three wins and holds a significant advantage in the race for a spot in the knockout stage. Therefore, Malaysia and Myanmar will have to compete fiercely for the remaining semifinal slot in the group.