KUALA LUMPUR: National forward Akhyar Rashid hopes Malaysia will win the AFF Cup as he wants to dedicate the winner’s medal to his parents.
The Kedah-born said his parents have been supporting his career since he started kicking the ball.
“They always pray for my success and now, I hope to repay them,” said Akhyar, who hopes to play in Saturday’s AFF Cup final return leg against Vietnam in Hanoi.
He has made five appearances, four as a substitute, in the tournament.
However, he said he hopes to get more supplies from his teammates if he plays.
“Whenever I play, I do not get enough support. They pass the ball and expect me to chase for it,” said the 19-year-old.
Akhyar believes his team have enough ammo to shock Vietnam in Hanoi.
“We need to be mentally and physically strong for the match as we will face not only Vietnam players but also their fans.”
Akhyar denied that he has been feeling strains of playing in too many matches this year.
“I am a footballer and my job is to be fit and also offer my best in matches. All we need to do is to rest well and also consume a healthy diet,” Akhyar added.