PETALING JAYA: A calming presence is needed to bring some stability to matches in pressure situations and Harith Haiqal Adam Afkar provides that from the backline.
The 21-year-old Selangor player will be the key man in Malaysia’s defence as they embark on their AFC Under-23 Asian Cup qualification journey from Sept 6-12 in Thailand.
Malaysia is in Group H with Thailand, Bangladesh and the Philippines, with all the matches being played in Chonburi, Thailand.
Harimau Muda will start their campaign against Bangladesh at the Chonburi Stadium tomorrow and Harith said it’s a team that they should not take lightly.
“Preparation went well the last five days. Coach Ela (E. Elavarasan) has prepared a lot to ensure we start well in the qualifiers. I hope all goes well in Chonburi,” said Harith, who is known for his calmness in defence thanks to his superbly timed tackles and interceptions.
“Pressure is always there. All the games are the same. Players have to be smart dealing with it. We have to win the first game to ensure we get some much needed momentum to win the next two.
“Plus we are not taking this tournament lightly. Bangladesh and the Philippines have nothing to lose. Anything can happen.”
Harith is entering the team with great form, playing eight Super League matches and scoring three goals.
As for the other competitions, he played two FA Cup games and two Malaysia Cup matches.
He revealed that getting game time was a blessing and helps him to immediately give an impact with the Under-23 team.
“Not a little bit, but it gives me a lot of confidence when I play. I have to thank coach Ah Hoe (Selangor coach Tan Cheng Hoe) for believing in me.
“And back in the Under-23 set-up, I know most of the boys, so in terms of chemistry, we have no issues. We have good players.
“Coach Ela focuses on his module. There will be changes here and there but his philosophy remains the same.
“We would look to be more aggressive and then hold the ball more.”
