KUALA LUMPUR: Ahmad Syihan Hazmi Mohamed is again being touted as the best choice for the No. 1 spot for the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Cup in December and also the 2023 Asian Cup.
The Negri Sembilan goalkeeper had an outstanding performance against Thailand and Tajikistan in the King’s Cup tournament in Chiangmai recently where Malaysia finished as runners-up.
Former national goalkeeper coach, Azmin Azram Abdul Aziz said the 26-year-old player had reciprocated the trust given by coach Kim Pan-gon.
“For me, it was the best performance, especially against Thailand. If we looked back there were four point-blank occasions in which he saved the day for the team.
“I hope he would continue with his form ... it is such a refreshing turn of events for the national squad,” said Azmin.
At the same time, Azmin Azram said he was not denying the capability of Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) experienced goalkeeper Mohd Farizal Marlias who has been a regular between the posts.
He said in terms of international experience, Farizal clearly has more but based on current form, Syihan holds the edge.
“The reason for choosing Syihan apart from his tall built is that he is young and will continue to become better.
“But he needs to remember that there are others breathing down his neck in Mohd Rahadiazli Rahalim (Terengganu) and Kalamullah Al-Hafiz Mat Rowi (PJ City) who have similar physical advantage,” he said.
In Chiangmai, Syihan picked up his third cap after his debut in the 4-1 win over Bangladesh in the 2023 Asia Cup Qualifiers here in June. — Bernama
