PETALING JAYA: Winning the 2013 Merdeka Tournament in Kuantan had been one of the high points of Junior Eldstal’s (pic) career and the defender wants to taste success again in the oldest tournament in Asia which kicks off tomorrow.
Malaysia will play India at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
Eldstal played in midfield for the national Under-23 team in the tournament 10 years ago which served as the preparation for the Myanmar SEA Games.
Malaysia went on to beat Myanmar 2-0 to win the competition where Eldstal, who is of Malaysian-Swedish parentage, scored a goal in the final.
Eldstal is still going strong at 32 but he now plays as a centreback for Kim Pan-gon’s Harimau Malaya who are vying for the honours in the competition which involves India and Tajikistan.
“We are hoping to do what we did 10 years ago.
‘‘I played as a midfielder and scored in the final. I hope that moment can be recreated again,” said Eldstal.
“It was one of the biggest moments of my career.
‘‘I will be giving my 100 percent effort.
“This team have not changed much since coach Kim has been here. There is harmony in the team.
“The coach focuses on a fast-paced game and we have to follow his tactics and game plan to achieve our goal,” added Eldstal, who has played 18 times for Harimau Malaya.
Victory will see Malaysia taking on Tajikistan in the final where Eldstal will have the opportunity to use his 2013 experience to steer the team.
