PETALING JAYA: When La'vere Corbin-Ong first got called up to the Harimau Malaya football squad in 2019, it was a side slowly developing under coach Tan Cheng Hoe.
After four years and 28 caps, the 32-year-old left-back has seen the national team move up the ranks and are able to take on bigger football nations.
He could bag his first trophy with the national team as Malaysia takes on Tajikistan in the Merdeka Tournament final at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Monday (Oct 16).
Now under the stewardship of South Korean coach Kim Pan-gon, Malaysia will hope to win the trophy again after 10 years.
The tournament was last held in 2013 and Malaysia beat Myanmar 2-0 in the final.
"We have improved a lot and can play football that is exciting to the fans," said the Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) player.
"Not to say we didn't play quality football before – it was just a matter of time before we rose slowly.
"As for Tajikistan, it is going to be a completely different match than India. It will be difficult but the coach is planning something different.
"All the players are excited to play good football and win the cup," he said.
Corbin-Ong plays at left-back for the country and has cemented his place in the national team thanks to his consistent performances.
However, he saiud he was not resting on his laurels.
"We have talented left-backs in the country. I am happy to be the first-choice left back but that's not to say there have been no challengers.
"We have enough left-backs in the country to challenge my position. They are pushing me to give my best every time.
"It doesn't mean others can't do the same job or better... when I play I try to do the best for Malaysia and my club," he said.
