KUALA LUMPUR: Striker Romel Morales wants to make Malaysian fans proud by leading Harimau Malaya to victory in Sunday's Merdeka Tournament final.
Malaysia secured a hard-fought 2-1 win over the Philippines at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Wednesday, setting up a showdown with Lebanon in the final.
Malaysia will face Lebanon in the final on Sunday.
Despite a fan boycott, the FA of Malaysia (FAM) reported that 15,800 supporters attended the match, witnessing Harimau Malaya's first win under caretaker coach Pau Marti Vicente.
Colombia-born Morales, 27, admitted it was a tough match against the Philippines.
"We prevailed in a tough game. Now, we want to be champions," said Morales.
"We thank all the fans, especially those who came to the stadium.
"The important thing is to show that we can stand united, and we'll try to make them proud."
"We want to bring them the trophy."
The versatile attacker credited the 2-1 comeback win to the team's hard work and determination.
"We all worked hard for the win. Even when we went a goal down, we kept playing and fought for every ball to get the result.
"We are one family, and we showed that on the pitch," he added.