Elite Games to shape Nafuzi's Malaysia U-23 squad for AFF Championship
KUALA LUMPUR: National Under-23 coach Nafuzi Zain is keeping his cards close to his chest, but signs point to a familiar core of players for Malaysia's AFF Championship campaign next month.
With the Elite Games mini-camp kicking off on Monday, Nafuzi said the short window until Wednesday will serve as a key assessment platform before the final training camp starts on July 1.
From there, the final squad will be named ahead of the team's July 13 departure to Thailand, where Malaysia begin their Group A campaign against the Philippines two days later.
"We have plenty of talented youngsters, and the Elite Games will help us monitor them before the AFF Championship. It's the start of the process," said Nafuzi.
While the Elite Games will include a sparring match, it is not just a scouting mission — it's a final audition for those hoping to break into the 30-man squad.
Nafuzi declined to name names, but several players from the recent senior national camp, all eligible for the Under-23 level, are under serious consideration.
Among them are Ubaidullah Shamsul Fazili and Haqimi Azim Rosli (both 22), who were retained until the second phase of training for Malaysia's 4-0 win over Vietnam earlier this month.
Also in the frame are Arif Aiman Hanapi, Nooa Laine, Harith Haiqal Adam Afkar, and Gabriel Palmero (all 23), who featured in the final 23-man squad for the Vietnam match.
"For players like Ubaidullah and Haqimi, we spoke with (Harimau Malaya coach) Peter Cklamovski to give them senior exposure. It's an important step, especially for those yet to represent the country," said Nafuzi.
However, Arif, now a regular with the senior team, is unlikely to feature in the AFF meet, while Palmero, based in Spain, may also miss out as the tournament falls outside the Fifa window.
Nafuzi revealed that 26 players will be called up initially, selected based on their form in the MFL Cup and other recent competitions.
"For now, we're only focusing on local-based players. The Elite Games will help us evaluate them and offer a platform to prove themselves before final selection on July 1."
He admitted that the league off-season poses challenges, particularly with match fitness, but said plans are in place for at least three friendly matches against Super League clubs to fine-tune the squad.
He has also reached out to club coaches to ensure smooth player release, with most responding positively.
"Some players haven't played for two or three months. That's why we're organising friendlies to test team chemistry, build rhythm and assess their readiness," he said.
Malaysia are in Group A alongside hosts Indonesia, the Philippines and Brunei.
Nafuzi sees the opening clash against the Philippines as crucial to setting the tone.
"It's a tough group. Facing Indonesia on their turf won't be easy. We must be physically and mentally ready — confidence will be key."
This will be Nafuzi's first tournament in charge, offering him a real glimpse of the next generation.
"I'm still getting to know many of these players. But our structure is aligned with the senior team. We've worked closely with Cklamovski to pick those ready now and those with future potential."
The Under-23 squad face a busy calendar this year, with the AFF Championship in Indonesia (July 15-29), Asian Cup qualifiers in Thailand (Sept 3-9) and the Sea Games (Dec 3-18) also in Thailand.
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