KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia face a must-win match in the Under-20 Asian Cup qualifiers against hosts Tajikistan at the Republican Central Stadium in Dushanbe tomorrow.
Qualifying for the tournament proper has become more difficult for Malaysia following North Korea's 2-0 win over Tajikistan in Wednesday's Group E clash.
The North Koreans now top the standings with seven points, leaving Malaysia three points behind in second place.
Oman and Tajikistan are tied on three points each, while Sri Lanka have yet to earn a point.
Only the group winners will automatically qualify for the tournament proper in China next year, with five additional spots reserved for the best second-placed teams across 10 groups.
Juan Torres Garrido's squad must defeat both Tajikistan and Sri Lanka in their remaining fixtures to have any hope of topping the group.
However, Malaysia's qualification also hinges on the outcome of North Korea's match against Oman.
Team manager Datuk Joehari Ayub remains optimistic that Malaysia can secure a spot in the Under-20 Asian Cup in China next year.
"The team delivered commendable performances in their first two games — a surprise 2-1 victory over Oman and a hard-fought goalless draw against North Korea.
"The players have executed the coach's strategies well and shown no fear in their matches," said Joehari.
However, Joehari revealed that a few players are currently dealing with injuries and health issues.
"The coaching staff is closely monitoring the players' conditions," he added.