KUALA LUMPUR: National youth coach Hassan Sazali Waras believes his team can achieve their target in the AFF Under-19 Championship after watching his side beat Cambodia 2-1 in their opening Group B match in Jakarta today.
Malaysia took a two-goal lead at half time through Najmudin Akmal Kamal Akmal (13th minute) and Haiqal Haqeemi Hairi (30th).
Cambodia reduced the deficit through Chanvibol Davit in the 56th minute.
"We achieved our target of earning three points in our first game. My players showed good understanding and communication.
"We hope to continue this momentum in our next game. As the schedule is tight, I will be rotating my players to avoid fatigue.
"I am not thinking too far ahead, but the target is the semi-finals."
Malaysia will take on Singapore on Thursday, followed by Timor Leste (July 9) and Laos (July 11).