KUALA LUMPUR: National Under-23 squad goalkeeper Sikh Izhan Nazrel Sikh Azman believes the team has to make full use of the two friendly matches they will play before the AFC Under-23 Asian Cup which starts in Qatar on April 15.
Izhan, 22, said the matches against China and hosts Qatar offer them a chance to improve on their weaknesses and gain confidence.
"These two friendly matches will help us prepare for the big games in the competition," said Izhan.
"Although the competition has yet to start, I can see that the players are already showing strong determination and focus in training.
"With the planning and arrangements made by the coaches, I am confident the players will be fully prepared."
The squad will leave for Qatar tomorrow. They have been drawn in group D alongside Uzbekistan, Kuwait and Vietnam in the competition.
Izhan, who has previously been called up by the national senior squad, is hoping to share his experience with his under-23 teammates.
"I have been to Qatar before with the senior squad so this will be my second time there. I will bring my experience with me for the under-23 squad," he said.
"It will be tough (competition) for us but I will do my best for my family. We also want to qualify for the Paris Olympics, this is our main goal."
