MU Match Is On

KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 (Bernama) -- The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) are ready to go ahead with the planned Manchester United match in Kuala Lumpur on July 27.

This is the wish of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi even if it means FAM could be facing serious consequences from the Asian and World football governing bodies.

FAM deputy president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah said although FAM risked being suspended for going ahead with the match against their wish, the decision was made in the country's interest, and the wishes of the public and the Prime Minister himself.

"Since the match is being organised here in conjunction with the country's 50th independence anniversary, we have to respect that cause even if means facing sanctions, including suspension by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC)," said Tengku Abdullah who also issued a statement to the media after chairing an emergency FAM council meeting here today.

"However, we will continue to seek AFC's cooperation and approval in this matter to find an amicable solution that would prove a win-win situation for all. We are actually in a very difficult situation.

Source: Bernama