KUALA LUMPUR: Ticket sales for the Merdeka Tournament, which kicks off on Wednesday, have been alarmingly low, with fewer than 1,000 tickets sold so far.
Malaysia will face the Philippines, while Lebanon will take on defending champions Tajikistan at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Wednesday.
The Merdeka Tournament, Asia's oldest football competition, is facing a worrying lack of interest, with FA of Malaysia (FAM) stadium and ticket committee chairman Datuk Posa Majais attributing the sluggish sales to a fan boycott.
"As of yesterday (Saturday), fewer than 1,000 tickets have been sold. FAM has tried various methods to promote ticket sales to fans," Posa revealed today.
"The Harimau Malaya squad desperately need their 12th player — the fans.
"Your support is crucial for the national team to secure positive results.
"The players are battling for the country, don't abandon them when they need you most."
Ultras Malaya fans, disgruntled with FAM for several reasons, have taken to social media to announce their decision to boycott the tournament.