Cape Verde Tipped Off On Harimau Malaya - Brito

KUALA LUMPUR, May 28 (Bernama) -- The Harimau Malaya squad have been reminded to take precautions ahead of two Tier 1 international friendlies against Cape Verde after information about the national team's strength is now allegedly in the hands of the African opponent.

Cape Verde head coach Pedro Brito admitted that Selangor FC import player Alvin Fortes, who is in his squad this time, has shared information about the national team with The Blue Sharks coaching staff.

"We have players who play in several countries, and we are happy to have players who are currently playing in Malaysia.

“Of course he (Fortes) shared some information about football and the Malaysian national team. However, our focus remains on our own preparation for tomorrow's match and also the upcoming matches," he said at a pre-match press conference here today.

For the record, the national squad ranked 131st in the world will face Cape Verde, currently ranked 72nd in the world, twice, tomorrow night, at Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium, Cheras and a closed-door match at Bukit Jalil National Stadium on June 3.

However, Brito while expecting the match to be not easy, expressed his excitement to face Malaysia for the first time.

"The ranking is not a guarantee of easy matches. Our focus is on managing the challenges that lie ahead. We have also brought in some young players who are joining the team for the first time.

"As a small country, it is important for us to get a variety of matches to gain international experience," he said.

According to him, it is also the best preparation for the team which is in the process of preparing for the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.

-- BERNAMA