PETALING JAYA: Harimau Malaya captain Dion Cools insists he feels no pressure, despite the high expectations as the team aim to end their 14-year trophy drought in tomorrow's Merdeka Tournament final at the National Stadium, Bukit Jalil.
Malaysia last tasted success in 2010 when then-coach Datuk K. Rajagobal led them to AFF Cup glory.
Now, Cools is determined to bring home a silverware, after falling short in last year's 2-0 defeat to Tajikistan in the Merdeka Tournament final.
"This is a great opportunity to win a medal and add another title to my collection.
"After the controversy of not keeping my silver medal last year, I want to hold on to the gold this time," said the defender during a pre-match press conference in Subang Jaya today.
Motivated by the chance to set things right, Cools added: "I'm really driven to lift the trophy."
He also called on fans to pack the National Stadium for the final.
"I hope the supporters turn up to cheer for us. Their presence gives us that extra energy. We want to win this trophy in front of our home fans."
Malaysia secured their spot in the final with a 2-1 win over the Philippines, while Lebanon caused an upset by defeating defending champions Tajikistan 1-0.