Red Alert for Man United as Asean All-Stars plot historic upset in KL

KUALA LUMPUR: Manchester United could be in for a torrid time when they face the Asean All-Stars in the highly anticipated Maybank Challenge Cup at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on May 28.This isn't just another exhibition match — it's a clash of pride, passion and footballing spirit, as Southeast Asia's finest unite under one banner to take on one of the most iconic clubs in the world.With more than 45,000 tickets already snapped up, anticipation is rising ahead of what promises to be a memorable night of football.

It will mark Manchester United's first visit to Malaysia in 16 years, with the Red Devils expected to bring a star-studded line-up including Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho, Kobbie Mainoo and captain Bruno Fernandes.While Ruben Amorim's side have endured a frustrating Premier League campaign — currently languishing in 14th — they remain in contention for Champions League qualification if they can go all the way in the Europa League. The Red Devils edged Lyon 7-6 on aggregate to book their spot in the semi-finals.



Their opponents, the Asean All-Stars, will feature top talent from all 12 Asean Football Federation (AFF) nations. Vietnam head coach Kim Sang Sik, who guided his team to glory at last year's Asean Cup, will lead the side.The line-up includes Thailand's Patiwat Khammai (True Bangkok United), Nikolas Mickelson (OB Odense) and Piradon Chamrasmi (Port); Indonesia's Asnawi Mangkualam (Port) and Muhammad Ferarri (Persija Jakarta); Brunei captain Azwan Ali Rahman (DPMM); Laos captain Bounphachan Bounkong (Svay Rieng); Myanmar's Maung Maung Lwin; and Timor-Leste's Joao Pedro.

Cambodia will be represented by Kan Mo (Visakha) and Andres Neto (Phnom Penh Crown), while Vietnam have selected Nguyen Hoang Duc (Phu Dong Ninh Binh), Nguyen Quang Hai (Cong An Ha Noi) and Do Duy Manh (Ha Noi).As for Malaysia, three names have been tipped for selection — Haziq Nadzli (Perak), Dominic Tan (Sabah) and Sergio Aguero (Sri Pahang). However, AFF has yet to confirm the final squad, leaving local fans eager for official news.

The Maybank Challenge Cup is made possible through a collaboration between ProEvents, the FA of Malaysia (FAM) and title sponsor Maybank.Following the clash in Kuala Lumpur, United will continue their Asia Tour with a stop in Hong Kong on May 30.© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd.