The Melaka-born coach stressed wins against the Philippines tomorrow and Laos on Sunday would boost Malaysia’s chances to qualify for the final round of the championship in Thailand.

He, however, admitted all teams in the group including China who would play Malaysia on March 26 should be taken seriously based on the intense preparations by the three teams.

“We cannot afford to take the challenge lightly especially Philippines who will be hosting this year’s SEA Games and they would have put tremendous efforts before this championship,” he told a pre-tournament media conference here today.

Which is why, Kim Swee said, he was forced to drop Pahang’s R Kogileswaran due to injuries and three other players as their positions had been filled.

The three players are Perak’s Nazirul Afif Ibrahim, Ariff Ar-Rasyid Ariffin (PKNS FC) and Ariusdius Jais of Sabah.

Meanwhile, Philippines U-22 head coach, Salvador Salvacion said he is aware of the tough test they are facing in this tournament, but he still has faith that his players would put up a good show to qualify for the tournament’s final round in Bangkok, next year.

“We are happy to be here and we will try our best. We are fielding a few new players and I hoped they will help our team to secure positive results in this tournament,” he said.