Daniel Ting Steps Up to Fill Attacking Void for Malaysia's World Cup Qualifiers

Malaysian national team left-back Daniel Ting is ready to take on a more attacking role in the upcoming World Cup 2026 and Asia Cup 2027 qualifiers. With several key players sidelined by injuries, Ting's versatility could be vital as Malaysia prepares to face Kyrgyzstan and Taiwan.

The 31-year-old Ting, who often plays further up the pitch for Sabah FC, is open to playing as a wing-back if head coach Kim Pan Gon deems it necessary. Ting's willingness to adapt comes at a critical time when the national team faces the absence of several wingers and strikers.

Malaysia's injury list includes key players such as wingers Mohamad Faisal Abdul Halim and Arif Aiman Mohd Hanapi, strikers Darren Lok, Muhammad Syafiq Ahmad, and Romel Morales, plus first-choice goalkeeper Ahmad Syihan Hazmi Mohamed. These injuries have forced the team to explore new tactical options.

Malaysia will face Kyrgyzstan on June 6 at the Dolen Omurzakov Stadium in Bishkek, followed by a match against Taiwan on June 11 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil. After four matches, Malaysia is in third place in the four-team standings with six points, trailing Kyrgyzstan and Oman, both of whom have nine points.

Ting expressed optimism about the team's prospects despite the challenges. "I've played a more attacking and higher role with Sabah, but we also have other younger players coming through, so I feel like we've got a lot of options to replace the missing boys," he said. Ting also emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, adding, "We can't go there (to Bishkek) thinking that we're going to lose. Of course, we want to win every single game, so we've got to go there (with a) positive (mindset)."

National coach Kim Pan Gon has been testing new tactics, including a different approach in a recent 1-0 win over Perak in a friendly match. Ting, who scored the decisive goal in that match, is ready to take on any role necessary for the team's success. "Every player wants to score, and it's a nice boost going into the Kyrgyzstan match. I'm happy to score, provide, or be involved as long as we're scoring," Ting remarked.

Malaysia had previously defeated Kyrgyzstan 4-3 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil last November, giving the team confidence heading into the upcoming match. The national team has been working hard in training to prepare for these vital qualifiers.

As Malaysia gears up for these important matches, Daniel Ting's adaptability and positive outlook could play a crucial role in overcoming the challenges posed by the injury crisis. The team's ability to secure favorable results will be vital for their aspirations in the World Cup 2026 and Asia Cup 2027 qualifiers.

Key Takeaways

• Daniel Ting ready to take on attacking role for Malaysia in World Cup 2026 and Asia Cup 2027 qualifiers.
• Injuries to key players force Malaysia to explore new tactical options.
• Malaysia faces Kyrgyzstan on June 6 and Taiwan on June 11 in upcoming qualifiers.
• Ting's versatility and positive mindset crucial for team's success.
• Malaysia aims to secure favorable results despite injury crisis.