Malaysia's coach B. Sathianathan will have a break to nearly everyone of his key players during Sunday's final Group A match in opposition to Afghanistan in the 40th Merdeka Cup football competition.

"Because most of them have played two matches in three days, I decided to give them a rest so that they can be in full flight in the semifinal on Thursday. It will also give the reserves a chance for some action,"

Malaysia qualified for the semis after pounding Nepal and Sierra Leone by 4-0 margins in the first two group matches.

Regardless of fielding second stringers, Sathianathan was positive Malaysia would rise above Afghanistan.

Sunday's match will be participate at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.