(Central News Agency reporter Li Jianzhong, Taipei, 20th) In the second round of the 2026 World Cup and 2027 Asian Cup qualifying rounds, the Taiwan men’s football team will face Malaysia at home for the first time at 7 o’clock tomorrow night. White, the head coach of the Taiwanese team, shouted: “We have no pressure and will definitely play a good game in front of the fans.”
Taiwan’s men’s football team is in the same group as Malaysia, Oman, and Kyrgyzstan in the second round of the 2026 World Cup and 2027 Asian Cup qualifying matches. According to the rules of the competition system, as long as the top two finishers can advance to the third round of the World Cup, they can also directly win the 2027 qualifiers. Qualification for the Asian Cup.
The “Blue Wings” Taiwan men’s football team lost 0-3 in their first game away to Oman on November 17, but this time they returned to their home court at the Taipei Track and Field Stadium to take on the enemy. Malaysia is ranked 137th in the world and Taiwan is 152nd. There is not much difference in strength between the two sides. , coupled with the past results of more wins and fewer losses, there is a good chance to win the first victory in the group.
Taiwan men’s football head coach Gary White said at the press conference that this must be a very exciting game. “Our whole team is not under pressure. With the fans helping to cheer us on, we will definitely perform well.”
The last time Taiwan and Malaysia met was in an international friendly match in 2018, when Taiwan won 2-0; and this time, Malaysia defeated Kyrgyzstan 4-3 in the first match of the group preliminaries.
“Taiwan captain” Chen Bo-liang made three 12-yard penalties against Malaysia at the same venue 12 years ago, but it was a pity that they lost. He said in a joint interview with the media today: “My body is still recovering and my condition is pretty good. Now my playing style is different. Of course I hope that the last game of this year will end well.”
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Malaysia’s Korean head coach Jin Bangkun mentioned that Taiwan’s record at home is very good, and its recent performance is also quite good. It will maintain a humble attitude to challenge. Although it lost more in the past and won less, “Malaysia is different now.” Team, different players, different coaches, our goal is to advance to the next round.”
Ticket prices for the Taiwan-Malaysia battle range from NT$200 to NT$400. About 60% of the tickets have been sold so far. The Football Association of the Republic of China appeals to fans to buy tickets and come to the stadium to cheer for the Taiwan men’s football team, which is fighting tirelessly. (Editor: Zhang Yajing) 1121120
