JOHOR BAHRU: National football team goalkeeper Ahmad Syihan Hazmi Mohamed said he will have to be at his best if he is selected to play against Hong Kong at the Sultan Ismail Stadium on Tuesday.
He was named man of the match during Malaysia's 1-0 win over Turkmenistan on Thursday, which was the first of two tier-one international friendlies lined up for Harimau Malaya in Iskandar Puteri.
Syihan said his outstanding performance against Turkmenistan was possible due to the solid teamwork shown by the squad.
It is unknown whether head coach Kim Pan Gon will keep him between the posts or opt to rotate his squad against Hong Kong.
"I was relieved to be able to keep a clean sheet (against Turkmenistan). It was a high-intensity game. The opponents put a lot of pressure on our defence," said Syihan today.
"I have to be prepared for whatever our opponents (Hong Kong) throw at us. They will definitely be looking to get revenge after losing to us last June.
"It will be a tough match for us."
Malaysia defeated Hong Kong 2-0 last year.
Syihan had to receive medical attention during the Turkmenistan game after making contact with Ruslan Mingazov in the 11th minute.
The 27-year-old was quick to rush out to stop Ruslan from scoring and sustained injuries in the process.
"It was unexpected. I suffered injuries to my face and legs, but thankfully, they were not too serious and I was able to continue playing," said Syihan.
"Playing against Hong Kong will be very different from playing against Turkmenistan. I will need to maintain my focus and remain mentally strong."
Syihan said strong communication between himself and defenders Dion Cools, Matthew Davies, Dominic Tan and Corbin Ong gave him the confidence to perform well.