DOHA: It took Malaysia 43 years to qualify for the Asian Cup on merit. After the Doha showpiece, will it take Malaysia another 43 years?
National player Syamer Kutty Abba believes that it won't take Malaysia decades again.
In fact, he is optimistic Harimau Malaya can qualify for the next edition of the quadrennial Asian event again - in 2027 in Saudi Arabia.
Midfielder Syamer, 27, said the Malaysian team are now more experienced to compete in Asia's highest level after playing in Doha.
Though Syamer was taken off in the second half against Bahrain on Saturday, he was outstanding with three dangerous strikes at goal in the first half.
"We didn't succeed now but there's always something for us to learn for the future," he said.