Coach Kim Swee Confident Malaysia Can Enter Semi-Final

YANGON, Nov 24 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's chances of entering the semi-final of the 2016 AFF Suzuki Cup is still open despite losing 0-1 to Vietnam in the second Group B match at Thuwunna Stadium, here, Wednesday. Head coach Ong Kim Swee was satisfied with the display of his players while admitting Vietnam played well in tempratures of 34 degree celcius. "We must beat (joint host) Myanmar in the final preliminary match to revive our hopes of making the semi-final," he told a press conference after the match. Midfielder Nguyen Trong Hoang turned hero for the Golden Stars after he poked home the ball into Malaysia's net after a melee inside the penalty box. Sharing Kim Swee's views is goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat who expressed the importance of beating Myanmar in the last group fixtures. "Our chance to advance to semi-finals is still open. We are under no pressure heading towards the final group match against Myanmar on Saturday." Vietnam head coach, Nguyen Huu Thang praised his side for showing true grit playing in the scorching heat though some players were unable to cope with it. "It was a tough match as our strikers were heavily guarded by the Malaysian defenders and their strikers are quite dangerous in the air. We were lucky to score the goal," he added. Nguyen said he will focus on the remaining match against bottom side, Cambodia at Wunna Theikdi Stadium in Naypyitaw on Saturday. The Philippines, Singapore and Indonesia are vying for the final semi-final spot. Cup holders Thailand booked their semi-final spot after a second straight win in Group A. -- BERNAMA