KUCHING: Anticipation now envelops the Sarawak Malaysia Games (SUKMA) women’s football squad.
This is as the team is still waiting for the group allocations and to find out their opponents, as the draw will only take place on July 13.
Head coach Suffian Ibrahim explained that this does not disrupt his players’ focus on their ongoing training.
“The players’ focus on training remains unaffected even though the draw will only take place on July 13,” he told Suara Sarawak recently.
Additionally, Suffian mentioned that the draw and briefing will be held in the capital city on that date.
The women’s football event begins on August 12 here, involving two different venues: State Stadium, Petra Jaya, and Padang D.
Meanwhile, the players’ capabilities will continue to be tested as they will fly to neighboring Thailand for two friendly matches.
“We will visit Thailand and the players will undergo two friendly matches there.
“According to the plan, two friendly matches against the under-21 women’s team in the Land of Smiles are scheduled for July 21 and 22,” he added.
Suffian then said the two warm-up matches will be the final exposure for the players to competitive action in preparation for the biennial event.
“I believe these matches will also serve as a platform to enhance the understanding among the players,” he said.
He also mentioned that 23 players will be part of the squad for these matches.
“In addition, the players will play several friendly matches here on July 17 and 18,” he said.
