KUALA LUMPUR – Ultras Malaya might need to consider other ways to continue putting pressure on the top leadership of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) after their attempt to boycott the 2024 Merdeka Tournament fell flat.
Ultras Malaya’s planned boycott was driven by growing frustration over a range of issues, including the national team’s management, alleged shortcomings within FAM, and concerns surrounding the Malaysian League matches.
This is not the first time Ultras Malaya has taken a stand. Notably, they boycotted the 2017 Kuala Lumpur SEA Games men’s football final between Malaysia and Thailand, in solidarity with fans who were left in the lurch by a failed ticketing system for that crucial match.
This boycott movement initially seemed to have an impact during the match against the Philippines last Wednesday, with a notably sparse crowd at Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
However, during the final match yesterday against Lebanon, there was a lively atmosphere with an estimated 20,000 spectators filling up the stadium to support the national team.
Despite the absence of drums and percussion by Ultras Malaya, this group of supporters still managed to ensure the spirited songs “Ale Ale Ayuh Malaysiaku” and “Sehati Sejiwa” echoed throughout Bukit Jalil Stadium.
As a result, the Harimau Malaya squad, led by Paul Marti Vicente, won 1-0 against Lebanon, thanks to a goal by Romel Morales, ending an 11-year championship drought in this tournament.
Therefore, the Harimau Malaya players expressed their gratitude to the fans who continued to support them at the stadium, even though the tournament was boycotted by Ultras Malaya.
“To be honest, I am grateful for the fans who have supported us from day one. I really feel the love they send our way, especially when we come here to Bukit Jalil.
“We know what’s happening outside but we want to stay focused on our game. We’re giving our very best out of respect for fans who come here, to give them a good show, and a win.
“Now, we are the champions, and this victory is all for them,” said Romel.
This sentiment was also echoed by midfielder Noa Laine, who was named the man of the match in the final.
“I think the atmosphere is still very good. For me, it’s always nice to have more fans coming by, so their support today was awesome,” said Noa Laine.
The duration of Ultras Malaya’s boycott of matches involving the Harimau Malaya squad remains uncertain, as only they hold the answer.
As the boycott continues, the national team is set to face a series of important fixtures where they will have two friendly matches in October, including a showdown against New Zealand, and two more in November as they prepare for the Asean Championship (formerly known as the AFF Cup) in December. – September 9, 2024
