PETALING JAYA: Though Harimau Malaya got beaten by Oman last week, coach Kim Pan Gon feels that the lessons learned will help his team for tomorrow's World Cup qualifier return leg at Bukit Jalil.
Pan Gon admitted that when Oman hired Czech coach Jaroslav Silhavy to replace Croatian Branko Ivankovic, the Reds surprised the Malaysians with some unexpected formations.
"Oman played a different formation (in the first leg) from what we were expecting.
"(Oman were) very aggressive and (forced Malaysia to) make mistakes. We learn from our mistakes," said Pan Gon at a pre-match press conference.
"If we get three points (against Oman tomorrow), it will be wonderful. But if we get a point, it should be a success," said Pan Gon.
On paper, Oman are the favourites. They are ranked world No. 80, 52 places above Malaysia, and are top of Group D.
Meanwhile captain Dion Cools admitted that Harimau Malaya don't have much time to prepare for the return leg, but said the team can still do something.
"We look forward to home games because they are always unique, and hopefully we will get a better result than the last game.
"We need to create more chances, we didn't create enough (in the away game)."
Cools said though Oman are a solid team, they don't have exceptional players.
"They play well as a unit. Overall, they are a good team, and I don't think they have weak points."