Rashid has scored both of his country’s goals at the tournament so far and will be looking to spring a surprise over the west Asian nation as Malaysia eye a possible place in the knockout phase in the competition.
Ong Kim Swee’s side are bottom of the standings in Group D with a solitary point picked up in their 1-1 draw with Jordan on Saturday but, with Saudi Arabia and the Jordanians just a point ahead, Malaysia are still in contention of a place in the quarter-finals.
"I thank God that I managed to score two goals in the first two matches, and I want to thank my teammates who helped us to get this important point,” Rashid said after his goal-scoring performance against the Jordanians.
"I am satisfied with our performance today, but we need to improve our weaknesses in training before the third match. I hope with commitment and determination we can get the win in the last match against Saudi Arabia to qualify for the quarter finals.”
Malaysia are making their debut appearance at the AFC U23 Championship and put in an improved performance against the Jordanians after kicking off their campaign with a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Iraq.
One notable aspect of Malaysia’s participation so far in the competition has been the hardy band of travelling fans – the ‘Ultras Malaya’ – who have backed their team in both matches despite the freezing temperatures.
"We are grateful to the fans and the players’ families who have come all the way to China to support us,” said Rashid, who scored from the penalty spot in the loss to Iraq. “They are the number 12 player, and their support is very important for us.
"We are facing three Arab teams in our group, and that’s a new style of play for us. So, regardless of qualification to the quarter-finals, this has been a great experience for us.”
Photos: AFC
