KUALA LUMPUR: The national youth team believe they will qualify for the Under-23 Asian Cup in Qatar next year.
Malaysia, who thrashed the Philippines 4-0 on Saturday, and Thailand each have six points, with the latter at the top of the Group H standings in the qualifiers on goal difference.
The Young Tigers and Thailand will face off at Chonburi Stadium on Tuesday.
E. Elavarasan's side must secure a victory against the Thais to top Group H and qualify for the tournament proper.
Team manager Datuk Seri Shahril Mokhtar remains confident of his team's abilities.
"The team's performance has been positive. We rested several regulars (against the Philippines) to keep them fresh for the match against Thailand.
"It all boils down to goal difference between both teams. However, we remain optimistic," said Shahril.
The four best-ranked runners-up from the qualifiers, comprising 11 groups, will also advance to the Under-23 Asian Cup.