Smallest player of Malaysia targets goal against Vietnam in SEA Games crucial match

Haykal Danish celebrates the equalizer for Malaysia in the 4-1 win against Laos at the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand on Dec. 6, 2025. Photo by VnExpress/Duc Dong

Wearing the number 10 jersey, Danish is considered the midfield maestro of the Malaysia squad, known for his excellent ball control and passing. He was instrumental in the opening 4-1 victory over Laos, where he scored a goal and orchestrated the team's attacks.

"Being big doesn't mean you're strong," Danish told The Star. "Real strength comes from your spirit and knowing who you are. Use your brain and focus on what you're good at. And I'm nothing without my teammates. Their support gives me the strength to keep going."

While the Laos match was considered a warm-up, the real test comes on Thursday when the opponent is Vietnam. Malaysia only need a draw to secure the top spot in the group, thanks to their superior goal difference.

"Of course we've prepared and discussed our tactics for Vietnam, but for me, we must deliver a strong performance and make the most of any opportunities," Danish said. "I've gained so much with the Malaysia U23 team because I have experienced coaches like Nafuzi, Shukor (Adan), and Hai O (Hairuddin Omar), all former national players. I've learned many new things and the areas I need to improve."

Reinforcements arrived

Malaysia received a significant boost ahead of the clash with the late arrival of three key players: captain and central defender Ubaidullah Shamsul, forward Fergus Tierney and midfielder Izwan Yuslan. All three were allowed to leave by their domestic clubs. Malaysia's preparation for the SEA Games was interrupted because many players were unable to join the team early due to club duties.

Coach Nafuzi Zain is rushing to integrate the new arrivals to ensure the best possible performance against Vietnam.

The preparation for this tournament has been challenging for many nations. Unlike Vietnam's V. League, the domestic leagues in Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia did not pause for the SEA Games. Thailand, for instance, have released seven players back to their clubs immediately after the opening match against Timor-Leste.

In Group B, both Vietnam and Malaysia have three points. Malaysia currently lead on goal difference (+3 compared to Vietnam's +1).

A draw in the final group match would likely see both teams advance to the semifinals. In that scenario, Malaysia would top the group, while Vietnam would finish second with four points.

Under the new format, where only the three group winners and the best runner-up team advance, four points would most likely secure Vietnam a spot in the semifinals.

The Vietnam and Malaysia match will start at 4 p.m. Thursday (Bangkok time) and be reported live on VnExpress International.