09-07-2025
Ziad feeling all pumped up for U-23 tourney after solid win over Melaka
KUALA LUMPUR: National Under-23 midfielder Ziad El-Basheer Norhisham is brimming with pride and purpose as he gears up for the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Under-23 Championship in Indonesia from July 15 to 29.
Fresh from a spirited training camp and a morale-boosting 4-1 victory over Malaysia's Super League side Melaka at the Cheras Football Stadium on Tuesday, the 21-year-old believes the squad are ready to make a strong statement in Surabaya.
'We've shown that we can bring this kind of spirit to Indonesia,' said the Johor Darul Ta'zim II player.
'We played well, beat a Super League team, and hopefully this momentum will carry us through the tournament.'
While the preparation window was short, Ziad insists the team's unity has helped them gel quickly, something he attributes to the atmosphere created by both players and coaching staff.
'It feels like we've been in a long camp. The chemistry is strong and positive. We're close off the field, and on the field there are no issues.'
This will be Ziad's second AFF tournament, having previously represented Malaysia at the AFF Under-19 Championship – also held in Indonesia.
Coach Nafuzi Zain stressed that fitness is the top priority at this stage, adding that his squad are already showing sharper speed and movement.
'We know the real challenge will be much tougher than our current situation,' he said.
Malaysia kick off their Group A campaign against the Philippines on July 15, followed by Brunei on July 18, and wrap up the group stage with a showdown against hosts Indonesia on July 21.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals on July 25, with the third-place playoff and final scheduled for July 29.
