Football: Eldstal: Playing Syria will be perfect tune-up for Asian Cup match against Jordan

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia are hoping that a friendly against Syria will boost their preparation to mount a strong challenge against Jordan in their opening Group E match in the Asian Cup at the Al-Janoub Stadium on Jan 15.

National centreback Junior Eldstal said the test match against the ‘Qasioun Eagles’ tomorrow is crucial as it can serve as a confidence booster before their tough opener.

Jordan are in good form at the moment after beating defending champions Qatar 2-1 in a friendly match at the Al-Gharafah Stadium yesterday.

Malaysia have faced Syria before when they held them 2-2 in an international friendly match at the Chengdu University Football Stadium on Sept 6 last year.

“It is a test. Syria are a tough side. We played them before in Chengdu, holding them 2-2. Their level is similar to Jordan. It’ll be a good ‘warm-up’ before the first game,” said the 32-year-old Junior.

“We know how the Arab teams play. They are physical and fast but we have our game plan against these sides during the group stages. From now until the first game, we have to be at 100%.

“We are getting used to the conditions here though the weather is different compared to Malaysia. It’s a bit colder here.

“But most of the mixed heritage players are from Europe, so we are used to the weather here in Doha. The fields are beautiful, the weather is breezy, so we have no excuses. We want to focus and play our game.”

Junior is expected to be the key man for Malaysia in defence thanks to his strength and height.

The 1.91m (6 ft 3 in) tall player has also blended well with the team.

“After coming out of retirement, my goal was to play for Malaysia again. Getting this chance was an honour,” he said.

“We’ve got a good team, who are not here just here to make up the numbers.

“I love playing alongside these boys. We need to stay focused and make Malaysia proud. We need to enjoy the journey as well.”