KUALA LUMPUR: Safawi Rasid has experienced the highs and lows of Malaysian football. And the winger is ready to take on a leading role for Harimau Malaya in their upcoming friendlies against China and Yemen.
Once the poster boy of Malaysian football, Safawi had difficult overseas spells with Portugal’s Portimonense and Thailand’s Ratchaburi, followed by domestic stints with Terengganu and KL City.
He has since rediscovered his form with Kuching City, and now finds himself among the main attacking options in a national squad without key Johor Darul Ta’zim players.
With Arif Aiman Hanapi also absent, and Faisal Halim sidelined by injury, Safawi is prepared to step up to the plate.
“In the absence of Arif Aiman, I can play as a right winger, a number 10, or a left winger. For me, there is no problem with positions,” he said.
Safawi credited his revival to the support of his teammates at Kuching City, where he has enjoyed a productive campaign and helped the club reach the FA Cup final, after a 3-2 aggregate win over Selangor on Sunday.
He said Kuching’s rousing performances had given him renewed confidence ahead of national duty, particularly after enduring criticism during a period when goals were hard to come by.
Malaysia face China on Nov 14 before meeting Yemen on Nov 17 in international friendlies at the Zhaoqing New District Sports Centre in Guangdong.
Safawi is aware of the physical challenge posed by China, but believes Malaysia can compete if they stick to the coaching staff’s plans.
“We just need to be smart, even though some of us have smaller physique.”