Striker Bambang Pamungkas has appealed to the nation for support as Indonesia looks to win some silverware at this year’s AFF Suzuki Cup, after being runner-up in the competition on four previous occasions.

“Let’s have no more two national teams and two soccer federations. I want to support the national team that is recognized by the AFF [ASEAN Football Federation],” he said as quoted by tournament website affsuzukicup.com.

Indonesia came close to winning the cup in 2010 when it reached the final, only to be defeated by arch-rival Malaysia. The Indonesian national soccer team, also known as the Merah Putih (red and whites) also reached the final in 2000, 2002 and 2004.

This year’s competition represents another opportunity, although coach Nil Maizal’s squad selection has been curtailed by a rift that has resulted in the formation of two separate domestic leagues.

Several players have been denied inclusion in the squad because they are playing for the Indonesian Super League (ISL).

The squad’s preparations have also been jolted by the detention of left-back Diego Michiels over assault allegations.

Indonesia will open the campaign against Laos in Group B at Bukit Jalil Stadium in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday, with Nil saying the Laotians would not be underestimated.

“To face Laos, we can’t afford to let up. They will be looking for a win as well,” he said as quoted by Antara news agency on Saturday.

He said the Merah Putih had prepared for the Laos team through watching videos of its match against Timor Leste and in qualification for the competition. “I think we have prepared well. We expect the players to give their best,” he said.

Indonesia is expected to deploy a 4-4-2 formation with Bambang teaming up with Irfan Bachdim in attack.

They will be supported by Andik Vermansyah, naturalized Tonnie Cusell, Taufiq and Oktovianus Maniani.

Novan Setya Sasongko, Wahyu Wijiasnanto, Hamdi Ramdan and Nopendi are very likely to be given the task of marshaling the defense, with Endra Prasetya set to start between the posts.

Indonesia’s group comprises three-time champion Singapore and reigning champion Malaysia. Both will square off against each other on Sunday.

Group A, which consists of three-time champion Thailand along with Vietnam, the Philippines and Myanmar, began matches on Saturday.

The top two from each group will advance to the semifinals, which are two legged affairs, played home and away on Dec. 8/9 (first leg) and Dec. 12/13. The final will be on Dec. 19 and 22.

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