KUALA LUMPUR: A well-oiled Malaysian side will take on favourites Vietnam in the semi-finals of the AFF Under-19 Championship in Bekasi, Indonesia tomorrow.
National youth coach Hassan Sazali Waras rested his regulars in the 1-0 Group B defeat to Laos on Monday to keep them fresh for the knockout stage.
Vietnam topped Group A ahead of runners-up Thailand, who will take on Laos in the other semi-final fixture.
"I have tested my fringe players against Laos, and tomorrow, I will pick the best for the Vietnam game," said Hassan today.
"My regulars are well-rested, though there are some injuries. I hope everyone will be available for selection.
"Vietnam are one of the strongest teams in the competition, but we have our plans to stop them from progressing into the final. My boys must play to instructions and avoid mistakes."
Malaysia's campaign in Bekasi has been underwhelming so far, with six goals scored and five conceded from two wins, one draw and one defeat in the group stage.
Vietnam were unbeaten in Group A (three wins and two draws) with striker Nguyen Quoc Viet scoring four goals.