DOHA: As Malaysia face South Korea in the Asian Cup tomorrow, coach Kim Pan Gon said he doesn't care what the critics say as the results of the past two years have proven that Harimau Malaya are improving.
He said when Harimau Malaya meet star-studded South Korea, it's an opportunity to gain valuable experience.
World No. 130 Malaysia take on World No. 23 South Korea in their last Group E match at the Al Janoub Stadium.
Pan Gon, who is a South Korean, said the continental Asian showpiece serves as a good avenue for the national team's developments.
"For me, I don't care (about the critics) because we have already proved in the last two years by showing our best performance and results.
"And after 43 years, we are here (at the Asian Cup on merit) but we've won plenty of games that were never mentioned (credited)," said Pan Gon.
"This is the best squad. I'm just looking forward and I need to prepare for the future.
"I don't need to take care of our (front) door (criticism). I spoke to the players and told them it's better to ignore (negativity).
"What we have done is great and we will go on to do greater things for the public. It's better to move forward rather than looking back."
After Malaysia's 4-0 loss to Jordan and 1-0 loss to Bahrain, the team were heavily criticised.
On the match against his own country, Pan Gon said: "There's pressure because they (South Korea) have a strong team and individuals.
"We want to put up a strong fight to give something that the nation can be proud of. That's important to us and we encourage our squad to play against (football) giants.
"Don't have fear and be brave against Korea."
Malaysia's last 10 meetings against South Korea have been less than appealing. This is the second time Malaysia will face South Korea in the Asian Cup group stage. At the 1980 Asian Cup in Kuwait, they drew 1-1. In 1989 in a World Cup qualifier, Malaysia lost 3-0 to South Korea.
South Korea's German coach Jurgen Klinsmann said he respects the Malaysia team and pointed out that Pan Gon's side have improved since their opening game loss to Jordan.
He added that Malaysia also have an advantage as their coach (Pan Gon) is a Korean, and thus is familiar with the Taeguk Warriors.