Malaysia calls on fans to rally behind the team as they host Vietnam in the ASEAN Cup 2026 semifinal.

The fervent backing of supporters at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium is considered a crucial source of strength for Malaysia as they look to establish a comfortable lead over defending champions Vietnam in the first leg of the ASEAN Cup semifinal, scheduled for the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras on Sunday.

Despite an increase in ticket prices for this match, the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) still hopes the stadium will be filled to capacity with fans, giving extra spirit to the team under coach Tan Cheng Hoe before they travel to Vietnam for the return leg on 19 August.

FAM Secretary-General Datuk Noor Azman Rahman said the fans' support in the earlier group-stage matches against Laos and the Philippines was highly rated by the team. The presence of the supporters also became a source of motivation for the players.

"We thank the fans who have remained loyal in supporting Harimau Malaya right up to reaching the semifinals. I call on supporters to come out in full force this Sunday to cheer for the team.

We sincerely hope that the stadium will be packed, which will help the team achieve a good result in the semifinal," he said.

Commenting on Malaysia's performances in the 2026 ASEAN Cup, Noor Azman said FAM is very proud of what the team led by coach Cheng Hoe has achieved in reaching the semifinals, despite having a short preparation time and fielding many young or less experienced players.

Meanwhile, before the semifinal first leg against Vietnam, Malaysia has suffered another setback as they lost midfielder Wan Kuzain Wan Kamal, who plays in the United States.

Astro Arena reporter Zulhelmi Zainal Azam shared: "Wan Kuzain has returned to the US and will no longer continue with the Malaysian team for the Hyundai ASEAN Cup campaign. The decision has been confirmed."

Earlier, as observed by Astro Arena reporter Faizal Bazari during Malaysia's training session, the team led by interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe returned to practice but only 16 players took part.

Malaysia had previously also confirmed the absence of three key players – Endrick Dos Santos, Jimmy Raymond and Engku Nur Shakir Engku Yacob – due to injuries sustained in their previous match.