Harimau Malaya Midfielder Backs Goalkeeper Despite Blunder
PETALING JAYA, Dec 18 (Bernama) — Harimau Malaya midfielder Endrick Dos Santos has given his full backing to goalkeeper Muhammad Haziq Nadzli despite the latter’s blunder costing Malaysia a 1-0 loss to Thailand in their third Group A match of the 2024 ASEAN Championship in Bangkok on Saturday (Dec 14).
Trust in Haziq Remains
Endrick said such errors are part of the game and reaffirmed the team’s trust in Haziq, who remains a key figure in the squad.
"We know he’s a very good goalkeeper. We still believe and have confidence in him," Endrick told reporters when met during a training session today.
"This (mistake) can happen to me and all the other players. If the coach picks him, I think he is okay to play," Endrick added.
Relieved and Happy
The Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) player said all the players were relieved and happy to learn that their final Group A opponents, Singapore, lost 4-2 to Thailand last night.
While acknowledging Singapore’s quality, the Brazilian-born naturalised player has, nonetheless, called on his teammates to focus on getting a victory in the ‘Causeway Derby’ at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Friday (Dec 20).
"I think we have a very big chance (against Singapore), plus we are stronger here at home. So, we need our fans’ support," he said.
Malaysia’s Semi-Final Hopes
Malaysia must beat Singapore to stand a chance of making the semi-finals.
Thailand currently lead Group A with nine points, followed by Singapore (six points), Cambodia (four points), Malaysia (also four points) and Timor-Leste rooted at the bottom without a single point.
Should Malaysia beat Singapore, they will have seven points, which should be enough for them to secure second spot in Group A as Thailand are not expected to have any problems defeating Cambodia on home ground at the Rajamangala National Stadium.
Only the top two teams from Group A and Group B will advance to the semi-finals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Harimau Malaya midfielder Endrick Dos Santos has given his full backing to goalkeeper Muhammad Haziq Nadzli despite the latter’s blunder costing Malaysia a 1-0 loss to Thailand in their third Group A match of the 2024 ASEAN Championship. The team must now focus on beating Singapore in the ‘Causeway Derby’ to stand a chance of making the semi-finals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Harimau Malaya midfielder Endrick Dos Santos’ stance on goalkeeper Muhammad Haziq Nadzli?
A: Endrick has given his full backing to Haziq despite the latter’s blunder costing Malaysia a 1-0 loss to Thailand.
Q: What are Malaysia’s chances of making the semi-finals?
A: Malaysia must beat Singapore to stand a chance of making the semi-finals.
Q: Who leads Group A in the 2024 ASEAN Championship?
A: Thailand currently leads Group A with nine points.
Q: How many points does Malaysia need to secure second spot in Group A?
A: Malaysia needs seven points to secure second spot in Group A.