SUBANG JAYA: National coach Nafuzi Zain is leaving no room for favouritism as Malaysia gear up for the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Under-23 Championship in Indonesia from July 15-29.

Despite having a handful of players with senior team experience in his 30-man squad, Nafuzi has made it clear – reputation means nothing without performance.

“There is a small group who’ve trained or played with Harimau Malaya, but every player will be assessed equally,” said Nafuzi.

Nafuzi, who has coached Terengganu and Kedah in the local league, took over as the national Under-23 coach this year.

“I will select the best based on what they show in training and friendlies, nothing is guaranteed.”

Menacing: Haqimi Azim Rosli (left) is one of the high profile strikers in the 30-man squad for the AFF Under-23 Championship.

Among the more high-profile names in the squad are strikers Haqimi Azim Rosli, Fergus Tierney; defender Ubaidullah Shamsul Fazili; midfielders Alif Ahmad, Mohamad Abu Khalil; winger Alif Izwan Yuslan; and creative playmaker Haykal Danish Haizon, all of whom have featured in senior team set-ups.

Still, Nafuzi insists it’s performance that counts.

“This is a fresh start for everyone. I have also brought in young talents and some familiar faces from past Under-23 squads. What matters is who can elevate our game not past appearances or name value.”

The team are currently in centralised camp and will play three friendly matches against Police (July 5), Melaka (July 8), and Negri Sembilan (July 11) before departing for Jakarta on July 12.

While the tournament is yet to begin, the hype has already kicked off, particularly from Indonesia’s vocal fanbase and media.

Nafuzi, however, is keeping his squad laser-focused on what matters most, football.

“We have seen the provocations, but we won’t be drawn into that. Our focus is on ourselves. I expect a great game, a great atmosphere, especially when we face Indonesia, but we’ll do our talking on the pitch.”

His message to the players is simple – stay grounded and take it one game at a time.

“We want to reach the final, of course. But for now, the focus is our opening match against the Philippines. Start strong, build momentum, that’s our goal.”

With all 30 players having reported for camp, Nafuzi is using this critical preparation window not just to drill his tactical philosophy, but also to understand his squad’s chemistry.

“This is the first time this group is assembling for a tournament, so this camp is important. They need to adapt to our style, and I need to observe how they respond, on and off the field,” he said.

Malaysia’s Group A campaign begins against the Philippines on July 15, followed by matches against Brunei (July 18) and hosts Indonesia (July 21) at the iconic Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, where passion, pressure, and pride will collide.