KUALA LUMPUR: Barring a miracle, it is highly unlikely that Malaysia will qualify for the second round of the ongoing AFC Asian Cup in Qatar.
Sports analyst Datuk Dr Pekan Ramli, however, stressed that it does not mean the national squad should be disheartened going into their final Group E match against tournament favourites South Korea on Thursday.
Malaysia has lost both its matches so far, suffering a 4-0 hammering at the hands of Jordan and edged 1-0 by Bahrain after conceding in the final moments of the match.
"This is not the time for the squad to feel disheartened or dejected, because this same group of players will have to go on to compete for us at the 2026 World Cup qualifiers (March)," said Pekan when contacted yesterday.
"There is not enough time to significantly change the squad for the World Cup qualifiers. We have to keep fighting and continue to improve ourselves as best possible. We showed positive improvements in the game against Bahrain and must build on that."
Pekan said South Korea, who are ranked 107 places higher than Malaysia, should not be viewed as being invincible.
"On paper, the odds are stacked against us, but that should not stop us from going for the win. South Korea looked vulnerable against Jordan (drew 2-2) and almost lost the match if not for that last minute own goal by Jordan.
"South Korea are in a relatively safe position to qualify now and it is possible they could rest a number of players against us. This is an opportunity for our players to raise their game and create an upset."
Harimau Malaya are in last place in the group with a negative five goal difference. Jordan (+4) and South Korea (+2) are first and second both on four points. Bahrain (-1) are third on three points.
Due to their vast goal deficit, it is unlikely Malaysia will qualify as one of the four best third-placed teams even if they beat South Korea and Bahrain lose to Jordan.