Another draw fiasco hit the 2018 Asian Games with the men's football competition set to undergo a re-draw.
A draw was already held on July 5, which saw Malaysia being drawn in the same group as defending champions South Korea, Kyrgyzstan and Bahrain.
However, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Palestine were inexplicably omitted from the draw, forcing the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) to void it.
The news gave a headache to Malaysia U-23 head coach Ong Kim Swee, especially with the competition kicking off in less than a month's time.
To further complicate the matter, Malaysia could be drawn into the same group as Saudi Arabia and China, whom they would face in upcoming friendly matches.
"[If there is another draw] I hope the organisers and the AFC will conduct it immediately because time is running out and preparations for us and other teams will be affected by the draw," said Ong when contacted by Astro Arena on Thursday.
"If we get drawn together with Saudi Arabia and China, this will affect our plan."
It was the second time a draw blunder occured for this year's Asian Games after Malaysia were mistakenly included for a sepaktakraw event, which was eventually rectified.
Seng Foo Lee
Fri Jul 20 2018
Brendan Rodgers warns Celtic not to ‘soften up’ during title run-in
Celtic remain top by three points – and have a five-goal advantage – with five matches remaining in the league.
Erling Haaland a doubt for FA Cup semi-final
The Manchester City striker suffered a muscular injury against Real Madrid which could keep him out of the Chelsea clash.
Philippe Clement urges Rangers to embrace intense environment of run-in
Rangers have just two wins from their last eight games in all competitions.
Bayern still have unfinished business in Bundesliga despite end of title reign
Bayer Leverkusen denied Bayern a 12th successive Bundesliga title last weekend.
Hamstring operation puts Nathan Patterson’s Euro 2024 hopes in doubt
It’s time to show what we’re made of, says Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta
The Gunners head to Wolves after back-to-back defeats.
Wolves v Arsenal: ‘What we still have to play for is beautiful’ – Arteta
Preview: Wolves v Arsenal
Ending FA Cup replays another example of EFL being ‘marginalised’, says league
All replays from the first round onward are being abolished.
John O’Shea could stay as interim Ireland boss as permanent appointment delayed
Stephen Kenny was relieved of his duties in November.
Tape ball programme can help England find unorthodox talent – Richard Gould
The ECB’s new core cities programme was showcased at an event in Birmingham on Thursday.