Mahali Longs for Memories of Harimau Malaya Lifting the AFF Cup

Harimau Malaya’s 2010 Victory: A Cherished Memory for Mahali Jasuli

Fourteen years have passed since the Harimau Malaya lifted the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Cup in 2010, now known as the ASEAN Cup. The memory of that triumph remains etched in the mind of former national defender Mahali Jasuli, who was part of the team that won the coveted trophy.

The Positive Aura Created

The country’s first success in 2010 created a positive aura for the team, which was then managed by Datuk K. Rajagopal. Mahali believes that winning the AFF Cup brings a unique aura, and he hopes that the national team can restore that aura as they embark on the competition starting this December.

The Quest to Lift the Trophy Again

Mahali, who has played with the national squad for a long time, shares his hopes for the team’s success in the upcoming competition. "I had played with the national squad for a long time, so I have felt that aura. We reached the final, and you could see the stadium packed with supporters, going to the ‘mamak’ shops. I hope it can happen again if we (the squad) do something," he said.

The Challenge Ahead

Mahali also expressed that the recent withdrawal of support from a segment of the 12th player (the supporters) should not dampen the spirit of the Harimau Malaya in their quest to end the 14-year wait to lift the trophy. He hopes that the national team, currently coached by Pau Marti Vicente, can restore the confidence and passion of the fans.

The Path to Success

The path to success is not an easy one, as the Harimau Malaya faces stiff competition in the 2024 edition of the ASEAN Cup. The team has been drawn into Group A, along with defending champions Thailand, Singapore, Cambodia, and the winner of the qualifying round between Brunei and Timor-Leste.

Conclusion

Mahali’s words serve as a reminder that the Harimau Malaya’s 2010 victory is a cherished memory that can be relived again. The team’s quest to lift the trophy again is not just about individual players, but about the collective effort of the entire nation. The Harimau Malaya’s 2010 victory is a testament to the power of teamwork, and the 2024 edition of the ASEAN Cup presents a new opportunity to create more memories.

FAQs

1. What is the AFL Cup?
   The Federation of Associations in Asian Football (AFL) Cup, also known as the AFF Cup, is an international football tournament that takes place every two years.

2. Who won the AFF Cup in 2010?
   The Harimau Malaya, Malaysia’s national football team, won the AFF Cup in 2010 after defeating Indonesia in the final with an aggregate score of 4-2.

3. Who is the current coach of the Harimau Malaya?
   Pau Marti Vicente is the current coach of the Harimau Malaya.

4. Who is Mahali Jasuli?
   Mahali Jasuli is a former national defender who played with the Harimau Malaya during their 2010 AFF Cup-winning campaign.

5. How many times has the Harimau Malaya finished as runners-up in the AFF Cup?
   The Harimau Malaya have finished as runners-up three times in the AFF Cup – in 1996, 2014, and 2018.