KUALA LUMPUR: Harimau Malaya have suffered a setback ahead of their international friendlies in China after forward Safawi Rasid left the national training camp on Thursday due to urgent family matters.
The Kuching City player, whose experience and attacking threat were expected to feature prominently during the tour, returned to Malaysia after informing the coaching staff of his situation.
Interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe confirmed Safawi’s departure, saying the team management understood and respected his decision.
“The national team management fully understands Safawi’s situation, and we respect his decision to return home for family reasons,” Cheng Hoe said in a statement.
Safawi’s absence leaves Malaysia without an experienced attacking option as they prepare for two Tier 1 international friendlies in Guangdong.
The national team are scheduled to face hosts China at the Zhaoqing New District Sports Centre Stadium on Saturday before taking on Yemen on Tuesday.
Both matches offer Malaysia an opportunity to test their preparations against international opposition and collect valuable FIFA ranking points.