PHNOM PENH: Striker Shahrel Fikri Fauzi’s game-changing performance in Malaysia’s 3-1 win over Cambodia on Monday proves that he is ready to lead the national team’s attack at the AFF Cup in November.
Shahrel, who plays for Nakhon Ratchashima in the Thai League, made a lasting impression as a 58th minute substitute for Nazmi Faiz Mansor. Malaysia were then 1-0 down.
The 24-year-old created two goals, netted by Shahrul Saad and Syazwan Andik, and scored the third in stoppage time for Malaysia’s third win of the season.
It was Shahrul’s first international goal and Syazwan’s second.
For Shahrel, it was his first on his fifth cap.
It was also Malaysia’s first away win since the 2-1 success over New Caledonia in Noumea in June 22, 2016.
“I was feeling motivated to help Malaysia record an away win as we have not done so for a long time. I was determined to make a difference for the team.
“As one of the few Malaysians playing abroad, I wanted to show my quality and utilise the experience from my current stint in Thailand.
“I am happy to have done well to help the team win and hopefully, it will help me get a spot in the starting line up in the future,” said Shahrel.
Shahrel, however, admitted that he needs to work harder in order to be included for the AFF Cup.
“I will return to Nakhon and focus on the league. I will do my best to improve in all aspects. Of course, I would like to be part of coach Tan Cheng Hoe’s plans for the upcoming friendly matches,” said Shahrel, who started his M-League professional career with Perak SEDC.