S. BALACHANDRAN described his team’s performance in the AFC Under-16 Championships as successful, though they failed to qualify for next year’s Fifa Under-17 World Cup.
The team produced commendable performances through out the tournament and were unlucky not to progress following the 2-1 defeat to Australia in the quarter-finals on Sunday.
“We had a dream a achieve and worked hard for two years but we did not make the World Cup.
“My players are disappointed. However, I am proud of them,” said coach Balachandran.
“I am very happy with our performance in this tournament. My team have showed that they can match the best sides here.
“Technically we are good but we need to improve our discipline during matches.”
The coach said short term attachments with clubs in Europe will be ideal for his players.
“I’ve submitted my proposal to FAM for next year’s plans.
Attachments with top clubs in Europe will help my boys improve but it should not be long term as they are still young.
“My dream is to help my team be on par with top teams in Asia,” said Balachandran.
On the defeat to Australia, Balachandran said: “It was tough to play them, but we played well, and could have got a draw.”
Among those who shone in the tournament were mid fielder R. Kogileswaran, striker Najmuddin Samat and captain Shahrul Akmal Adnan.
The FA of Malaysia (FAM) must take efforts to ensure the team remain intact and that the boys are exposed accordingly.
FAM general-secretary Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said Balachandran has transformed the players into a formidable unit.
“There is something special about this team... they play a different brand of football and I seed a great future for Malaysian football.
“We need to take care of these boys. Yes, we have plans but I can’t disclose them yet as none has been presented to the exco,” said Hamidin.