KUALA LUMPUR – Low spectator attendance should not deter Harimau Malaya from lifting the Merdeka Cup.
Former national player Liew Kit Kong shared this sentiment with the national team, who will face the Philippines tonight at the National Stadium Bukit Jalil.
Ticket sales for the 2024 Merdeka Tournament have been sluggish, with only around 1,000 tickets sold so far.
The low turnout is largely due to a boycott led by fan group Ultras Malaya, followed by several Ultras groups in other states, to protest against the Football Association of Malaysia’s leadership, which has been embroiled in recent controversies.
However, Kit Kong believes this issue should not affect the players, noting that many matches in the domestic league are also played in front of sparse crowds.
“Fans play a significant role – but as players, your job is to win. Every player has that same mentality.
“The support from the crowd is a bonus, it lifts our spirits when they cheer. But if they’re not there, it’s something players will miss.
“However, I think players should focus on winning and adapt to the environment. Most of the time, our league is also not full of spectators, so they are already used to it,” said Kit Kong to Scoop.
Despite the mixed sentiments among supporters, Kit Kong said the national squad should express a deep sense of pride in representing Malaysia in this tournament.
The Merdeka Cup, held since 1957, has featured several great teams and world-renowned players, including former England striker Kevin Keegan, who was invited to play for Harimau Malaya in the 1984 edition.
“The Merdeka Cup has a long history, going back to the era of legends like Datuk Soh Chin Aun and Datuk Santokh Singh.
“When I was selected to play at the age of 20 or 21, it felt like following in the footsteps of legends, and we carried the national name with pride.
“Being a part of that was truly special,” Kit Kong added.
This year’s edition features Malaysia, the Philippines, Lebanon, and defending champions Tajikistan. – September 4, 2024