Malaysian defender wary of Quang Hai ahead of ASEAN Cup semi-final

Before the first leg of the ASEAN Cup semi-final against Vietnam, young Malaysian defender Alif Ahmad admitted he will encounter a tough test when tasked with containing the speedy players on the opposing side, among them Nguyen Quang Hai.

Alif Ahmad is approaching a memorable milestone in his career with the Malaysian national team. The 21-year-old defender is expected to make his first start in a knockout stage match as Malaysia hosts Vietnam at Cheras Football Stadium on August 16.

Initially, Alif was called up to the Malaysian squad for the ASEAN Cup as a backup for Jimmy Raymond. However, an ankle injury to the first-choice right-back opened the door for the Johor Darul Ta'zim II player.

In Malaysia's last four matches, Alif has started twice and come off the bench twice. Being used more frequently than expected has helped the young defender quickly gain experience at the international level.

The next challenge for Alif will be much tougher as Malaysia faces Vietnam in the semi-finals. According to The Star, the 21-year-old defender is fully aware of the danger posed by Vietnam's fast attacking players, with Nguyen Quang Hai and Le Van Do being highlighted as notable names.

Alif believes he is growing with each match and is determined to seize the opportunity to prove he can become one of Malaysia's top full-backs.

"I am truly grateful for this opportunity. I will make the most of it and become a better player," Alif shared.

The Johor Darul Ta'zim II player also thanked his teammates and coaching staff for helping him quickly adapt. According to Alif, captain Paulo Josue and head coach Tan Cheng Hoe have had a significant influence on him during his time with the national team.

"Captain Paulo Josue is the one who has had the biggest impact on me, along with head coach Tan Cheng Hoe. Paulo always gives us words of encouragement," Alif said.

"Being here is a dream. I've been given a lot of playing time and opportunities, and that's something I truly appreciate.

I never thought I could go straight from the A1 Semi-Pro League to the national team. But I was called up and I consider it a blessing," the 21-year-old defender stated.

Ahead of the clash with Vietnam, Alif will have to prove his progress in a match that carries much more significance than the group stage. His ability to handle Quang Hai and Vietnam's attacking players will be one of the key tests for the young Malaysian defender in the first leg of the semi-final.