Malaysia summons central defender playing in La Liga to play against Vietnam

TPO - The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) confirmed that central defender Facundo Garces - a player currently playing in La Liga for Deportivo Alaves - will be included in the national team's list to prepare for the match against Vietnam in the Asian Cup qualifiers on June 10.

Facundo Garces (26 years old) was born in Santa Fe, Argentina. He grew up in the Colon club's training center and has played 116 matches for this team in the Argentine national championship.

At the beginning of the 2024/25 season, Garces moved to Deportivo Alaves - a team playing in La Liga, on a free transfer. The center-back born in 1999 played 10 matches, with 7 starts in the official lineup, leaving his mark with a calm, solid style and strong aerial play.

Garces' completion of naturalization procedures and eligibility to play for the Malaysian national team is the result of careful preparation by FAM.

Garces has undergone all physical and legal tests and has been cleared by FIFA to play internationally for Malaysia as he has never represented Argentina at senior level.

Facundo Garces (blue shirt) plays in La Liga

Head coach Peter Clamovski could not hide his excitement at Garces' presence: "Facundo is a great addition. He is the model of a modern central defender: calm, strong, experienced and has leadership qualities. Most importantly, he shows a strong desire to play for Malaysia and fight for the national team."

For his part, Facundo Garces could not hide his emotions. “Being part of the Malaysian national team is a great honor for me,” Garces said. “From the first days I arrived here, I felt the warmth, family spirit and sincere support from everyone.”

"I can't imagine how it will feel to step onto the pitch in Malaysia's colours in front of tens of thousands of fans in the stands. I will give my all for this country," Garces said.

Garces is currently at the Malaysian national team’s headquarters and has been training with his teammates during the FIFA Days from June 2 to 10. He is ready to play in the crucial match against Vietnam at Bukit Jalil, where the 87,500-capacity stadium will be filled on June 10.

Trong Dat

Source: https://tienphong.vn/malaysia-trieu-tap-trung-ve-choi-bong-o-la-liga-dau-tuyen-viet-nam-post1747859.tpo