KUALA LUMPUR: Football critic Datuk Richard Scully is not impressed with caretaker coach Pau Marti Vicente's tactical approach despite Harimau Malaya's 2-1 victory over the Philippines in Wednesday's Merdeka Tournament clash.
Vicente, who took over after Kim Pan Gon's resignation last month, got off to a winning start, but his world No. 134 team will need to improve when they face Lebanon in Sunday's final at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
Richard noted that Vicente prefers open play, a shift from Pan Gon's signature high-pressing game.
"It's clear Vicente has a different vision," said Richard.
"We saw less intensity compared to Pan Gon's high-pressing style. Wednesday's game lacked its usual fire."
Harimau Malaya adopted a low-block strategy, prioritising defence, which gave the Philippines plenty of opportunities to challenge the Malaysians.
"Our defence was repeatedly tested by their swift counter-attacks, resulting in some reckless tackles from our players.
"At times, the team looked shaky, making mistakes that nearly cost us the game."
"The Philippines took full advantage of Malaysia's vulnerabilities, forcing several desperate tackles that could have been avoided," said Richard.
However, he praised midfielder Syamer Kutty Abba, who equalised in the 43rd minute with a perfectly placed shot after the Philippines had taken the lead through an own goal by Feroz Baharuddin in the 27th minute.
"Syamer's goal was pure skill. He outwitted the Filipino goalkeeper with a precise strike," Richard added.
Safawi Rasid secured Malaysia's win by converting a 73rd-minute penalty.
Looking ahead to Sunday's final against Lebanon, who edged out Tajikistan 1-0 on Wednesday, Richard urged Vicente to rethink his tactical strategy.
"Lebanon won't sit back. They'll likely apply early pressure. We need to absorb their attacks and counter-press effectively.
"Playing an open game could be dangerous," Richard warned.
Last year, Malaysia fell 2-0 to Tajikistan in the final.