PETALING JAYA: Caretaker coach Pau Marti Vicente promised that Harimau Malaya will "roar loud and proud" in tomorrow's Merdeka Tournament final against Lebanon at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
The Spaniard, who is desperate to prove his worth and secure a permanent role, knows that quick results are crucial if he is to stay in the FAM hot seat beyond December.
Speaking at a press conference in Subang, Vicente didn't hold back, outlining the three key factors he believes will lead to Malaysia's triumph.
"We have to be aggressive, make the most of our chances, and a bit of luck could be the difference," said Vicente, who copped flak for the team's cautious 2-1 victory over the Philippines on Wednesday.
"It's hard to achieve perfection in football, but we must be seamless in transitioning from defence to attack. If we nail that, we'll be in a great position to win."
The 41-year-old coach made it clear – the team must attack Lebanon's goal with intent and create chances against the tough Middle Eastern side.
"Lebanon are no pushovers, and to beat them, we need to be creating opportunities. Malaysia haven't won this trophy for over a decade, and we hope to end that drought tomorrow."
Vicente, who took over from South Korean Kim Pan Gon last month, confirmed that only midfielder Afiq Fazail will miss the final.
Meanwhile, captain Dion Cools says the team are ready for whatever Lebanon throw at them.
"They've probably analysed our win over the Philippines and might change their tactics. But we've done our homework too. Our focus is on our own game," said Cools.
The Belgian-Malaysian centre-back, who infamously tossed aside his silver medal after last year's runner-up finish, is determined to make amends this time around.
"I don't see it as extra pressure. We've reached two finals, and now it's time to win and add the title to my collection. Last year's incident was controversial, but this time I want to lift the trophy," he said with confidence.
Commenting on the pitch at the National Stadium, Cools described it as "quite decent."
"The pitch isn't perfect, but it's one of the best I've played on," added Cools.
World No. 134 Malaysia previously lost to Lebanon (ranked No. 116) by identical 2-1 scores in Johor Baru and Beirut during the 2019 Asian Cup qualifiers.
The Merdeka Tournament trophy has eluded Malaysia since they last lifted it in Kuantan back in 2013.