PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian football team may feel like they are swimming with sharks when they square off against holders Vietnam in their Hyundai AFF Cup first-leg semi-final at the Cheras Football Stadium on Sunday (Aug 15).

But they won't be short of inspiration as underdogs to get a surprise result.

Interim coach Tan Cheng Hoe wants his players to draw inspiration from the Blue Sharks - World Cup debutants Cape Verde.

The tiny African island nation defied huge odds, staying unbeaten in the group stage to reach the last 32 where they lost narrowly to Argentina.

"At the recent World Cup, Cape Verde played against Spain and held them to a 0-0 draw. That is the motivation we need to carry with us when facing a top side in this semi-final," Cheng Hoe said at the pre-match press conference. 

Cheng Hoe acknowledged Vietnam’s strong attacking threat but insisted his side would focus on their own game.

"We have to go into the pitch with confidence, and focus on our own team rather than too much on Vietnam.

"They have a very strong side, especially in attack but playing at home, the support from the crowd will be a big help," he said.

Injuries have complicated selection, although there was a boost with winger Mohamadou Sumareh declared fit.

"Sumareh has trained with the team and looks ready. But Aliff Haiqal (Lau), Engku Nur Shakir (Nur Yacob) and a few others are not ready.

"We also miss Wan Kuzain (Wan Ahmad Kamal), who has club commitments. I have to find the best solution for the starting XI," Cheng Hoe said.

With Endrick (dos Santos) also unavailable, Cheng Hoe said the semi-final presents an opportunity for fringe players such as Daryl Sham George, Ibrahim Manusi and Ziad El-Basheer to step up.