Malaysia introduces 2 naturalized stars, ready to face Vietnam team

New signing Hector Hevel will significantly upgrade the Malaysian team's midfield - Photo: Portimonense SC

In preparation for the first match against Nepal on March 25 in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, the Malaysian team has the services of a pair of quality naturalized players from Europe, Hector Hevel and Gabriel Palmero.

According to Malaysia's Berita Harian newspaper, two new naturalized Malaysian players were included in the national team's squad today, March 20.

Hector Hevel was born in the Netherlands and plays as a midfielder. The 28-year-old currently plays for Portuguese second division club Portimoense, where he has made six appearances this season.

Meanwhile, Gabriel Palmero is of Spanish descent. The 23-year-old left-back plays for the country's fourth-tier club CD Tenerife B.

The presence of two new naturalized players has made the Malaysian players more optimistic. Player Syamer Kutty Abba said Hector Hevel and Gabriel Palmero have improved the quality of the whole team.

In addition, he hopes to work with naturalized players to bring the national team's name to the international arena.

During the FIFA Days in March 2025, Malaysia will only have one match against Nepal on March 25.

The team led by coach Peter Cklamovski is having difficulty in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers when it is in Group F with Vietnam, Nepal and Laos.

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THANH DINH