PETALING JAYA: The intensity is rising, the squad are trimmed, and Harimau Malaya are shifting into second gear.

National coach Peter Cklamovski has officially kicked off phase two of Malaysia’s centralised training camp ahead of their friendly against Cape Verde on Thursday and June 6, and the crucial 2027 Asian Cup third-round qualifier against Vietnam on June 10.

With 31 players retained from the initial pool, a few names have been omitted from phase one, which began on May 18.

But Cklamovski remains upbeat about the progress made, highlighting the cohesion, commitment and character shown by the players so far.

“We’re moving into phase two today, and phase one went really well,” said Cklamovski.

“We’ve connected well in terms of progressing our game and building our identity both on and off the field. We want to make every Malaysian fan proud of this team.”

The squad have been training through the domestic off-season, and Cklamovski emphasised that while fitness is important, the focus is equally on sharpening tactical awareness and match intelligence.

“It’s an interesting part of the camp, especially since it’s the off-season. But we’ve trained hard and smart. The players are regaining their rhythm after four weeks of rest and have shown great attitude,” he said. “We’re taking steps every day with our identity in how we train and play.”

One notable new addition is Tenerife wingback Gabriel Palmero, who joined the squad after his season in Europe.

“He trained with us during the last camp, and he’s come in good condition. He’s proud to represent Malaysia, and although he’s adapting after a long flight, we’re glad to have him.”

Another player who has caught the coach’s eye is Faisal Halim, fondly known as Mickey.

“Mickey has progressed a lot since March. This is the best I’ve seen him since I came to Malaysia. He’s developing himself and growing into his own. I’m excited to watch what he can do.”

Meanwhile, midfielder Endrick Dos Santos and goalkeeper Ahmad Syihan Hazmi have also reported for duty. Dos Santos arrived on Sunday, barely 24 hours after a match with his club, and is currently in recovery mode.

Syihan, too, is in good condition, having wrapped up his season earlier.

As part of the squad transition, goalkeeper Haziq Nadzli has been released to represent the Asean All-Stars in their match against Manchester United on Wednesday.

“Haziq left with our full support and in good spirit, and will return stronger after the game against Manchester United,” said Cklamovski.

Several players from the Under-23 set-up who were part of the first phase of training have also returned to their teams, but not without leaving an impression.

“I spoke to them after training on Saturday. They learnt a lot from the environment, and I told them to take that experience into their careers. ‘’We also want to inject that same level of intensity and learning into the Under-23 programme for the AFF Championship in July and the AFC qualifiers later this year.”