Preview: Malaysia U-23 vs Japan U-23

Japan go into this match in need of a big win to secure a spot in the upcoming London Olympics, but going up against Malaysia at their home fortress could be a tricky tie. The Blue Samurais are currently level on nine points with Syria at the top of the table, although Syria lead the standings due to a precious one-goal difference.

What makes the Malaysia-Japan clash so interesting is the fact that only group leaders are guaranteed an automatic spot in London, while the second-placed team would have to face the runners up from two other Asian groups, before the winner jets-off to face Senegal for the last spot in the Olympics.

That definitely means that Japan are in dire need of a big win against Malaysia, before facing Bahrain in their penultimate game next month. However, going up against the spirited Malaysians would not be an easy task.

Ong Kim Swee has reiterated that although its virtually impossible for them to earn qualification, pride will be at stake when they host Japan at the Bukit Jalil Stadium tomorrow. Often known as Harimau Muda, this side is currently contesting in Singapore's S.League, in which they won their first ever match by beating Gombak United 2-0.

With the backing of the noisy home fans, Malaysia are likely to line-up in an offensive position against Japan, with Thamil Arasu and Ahmad Shakir Ali upfront. Nazmi Faiz is expected to start in midfield alongside K. Gurusamy while Fadhli Shas and Muslim Ahmad will be joining forces at the heart of their defence.

Another significant boost to the Harimau Muda will be the presence of Khairul Fahmi, who was magnificent in keeping out a flurry of Japanese attack during their earlier clash in the Orient nation last September. The Kelantan man will be a force to be reckoned with in-between Malaysia's sticks and expect him to be pivotal on Wednesday night.