Paulo Josue Wants Malaysia to End Trophy Drought at 2026 Asean Fifa Cup
National Midfielder Confident Harimau Malaya Can Challenge Southeast Asia’s Top Teams
KUALA LUMPUR — National attacking midfielder Paulo Josue believes the 2026 Asean Fifa Cup could become the ideal stage for Malaysia national football team to finally end its long wait for regional silverware.
The tournament, scheduled from September 21 to October 6, is seen as a major opportunity for Harimau Malaya to shine again after years of rebuilding the national squad.
According to Paulo Josue, Malaysia possess the quality needed to compete strongly against any team in Southeast Asia based on the performances the squad has shown in recent years.
He said the national team have displayed encouraging progress in previous competitions and believes the players are now more mature and prepared to compete at a higher level.
“We know Southeast Asian teams are very competitive, but I believe Malaysia also has its own strengths and can give strong competition.
“This is the best opportunity for us to try to bring home a trophy for the country,” he said after attending the AllStar Legends press conference in Kuala Lumpur today.
Paulo Josue also stressed the importance of comprehensive preparation, including tactical planning, fitness and team chemistry ahead of the tournament.
He hopes national head coach Peter Cklamovski will be able to gather the country’s strongest players to ensure Malaysia enter the tournament with their best possible squad.
“We need the best preparation and all key players must be fully ready. If everything goes well, I believe Malaysia can go far in the competition,” he said.
He also described support from local fans as a vital factor capable of boosting the team’s motivation throughout the tournament.
Earlier, Malaysia national football team were drawn alongside Thailand national football team in the group stage of the tournament.
The official draw ceremony was held in Jakarta, with group stage matches scheduled from July 24 to August 26.
Meanwhile, Vietnam national football team were placed in Group A together with Singapore national football team, Indonesia national football team, Cambodia national football team and the winner of the playoff clash between Brunei national football team and Timor-Leste national football team.
The 2026 Asean Fifa Cup is expected to become one of the most anticipated tournaments for Malaysian football supporters eager to see Harimau Malaya achieve success once again on the regional stage.
-wilayah.com.my
