KUALA LUMPUR: Harimau Malaya can expect a physical and fast-paced clash when they face world No. 95 New Zealand at North Harbour Stadium in Auckland on Monday.
It will be Malaysia's first official match since edging Lebanon in the Merdeka Tournament final on Sept 8, while the All Whites defeated Tahiti 3-0 in a World Cup qualifier on Friday.
While world No. 132 Harimau Malaya have only played Asian teams this year, New Zealand have faced stronger countries, including Mexico, the United States, Tunisia, and Egypt — all of whom have featured in the World Cup.
The Kiwis boast several European-based players, including captain Chris Wood (Premier League's Nottingham Forest), Liberato Cacace (Serie A's Empoli) and Ben Old (Ligue 1's Saint-Etienne).
However, New Zealand coach Darren Bazeley hinted at a reshuffled line-up for the friendly.
"I expect there will be changes, but not wholesale," said Bazeley during a media briefing in Auckland on Sunday.
Bazeley used 16 players against Tahiti, and any changes are likely to provide opportunities for players from new A-League club Auckland FC.
Three Auckland players — goalkeeper Alex Paulsen, defender Tommy Smith, and midfielder Cam Howieson — were unused substitutes against Tahiti, while striker Logan Rogerson came off the bench in the 76th minute.
On the match against Malaysia, Bazeley said: "We're the favourites. It's an opportunity for us to play as the team expected to win, rather than being the underdogs.
"Malaysia have come with a big squad, and we need to put on a performance at home on a good pitch."
The New Zealand squad for the friendly will include nine players from A-League rivals Auckland and Wellington Phoenix.
This will be the first encounter between the two sides since 2006, when Malaysia lost both friendlies 1-0 and 2-1.
Harimau Malaya caretaker coach Pau Marti Vicente said all his players are available for the match.
"Our focus is on our strategy and adapting effectively to New Zealand's style," said Vicente.
"This will be a tough match. New Zealand players are used to high-level competition, and with the game being at home, they will be highly motivated.
"We must be prepared for that challenge."
Vicente also touched on the importance of achieving a positive result, which could improve Malaysia's world ranking.
"Every match is important, and if we can secure a historic win, it could help us drop below No. 130 in the rankings," said Vicente.
For the record, Malaysia and New Zealand have met 12 times since 1967, with the former registering two wins, two draws, and eight defeats.
Harimau Malaya's last win over New Zealand came in 1999, when they triumphed 2-1.