Hadfina On Her Growth, International Debut & Ambitions for the Season

Hey Nina, tell us a bit more about yourself! How’s life been lately, and what have youbeen up to? 
For now, my focus is on fitting into the team culture while staying true to myself. I always give mybest effort during training—staying focused every session and traveling back and forth from Pahang to Selangor every weekend. I’m still learning how to communicate better with my new teammates so that we can perform at our best together. 

So, how did your football journey begin? Did you start playing at a young age, or was there a specific moment when you realized you wanted to take it seriously?
I started playing football with my brother and his friends, just for fun. Then, one of my elementary school friends told me about a girls' club in Penang called Penang Panther. I asked my dad to send me there, but when I arrived, I found out there were no girls. I was disappointed at first, but luckily, the coach was a friend of my dad. He let me join the team and told my dad I had potential. That’s how my football journey began, and I would like to thank Coach Nordin for giving me that opportunity.

Tell us about your time with SSMP! From what I understand, you’ll be completing your studies soon. How was your experience there? From the outside, it seems like you and your teammates share a really close bond both on and off the field. Did you enjoy your time with them?
I would like to thank Coach Kok for inviting me to join the SSMP team. He gave me so much valuable knowledge and experience. I’m also very grateful to my current coach, Coach Zerry, for giving me the opportunity to play in the first eleven. Because of that, I’ve been able to show my full potential on the field and continue growing as a player.

 

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It’s Selangor for you this year! How has the transition been, and how are you settling in with your new team?
At first, I struggled with adjusting to this new team, but the coaches and my teammates kept guiding and supporting me. Thanks to their advice and encouragement, I started improving and feeling more comfortable. With such a quality team and coaching staff, I’ve been able to open up more about my gameplay and focus on making small improvements every day.

 

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I think we at The Pitch Invaders first took notice of you last October when you made your senior international debut. How did that moment feel for you, and what was it like working with Coach Soleen?
I was super nervous and happy at the same time when I saw my name called up for the senior national team. I worked really hard to earn my place, and Alhamdulillah, I got it. Making my debut was such a proud and honorable moment—representing the country is a huge achievement. I’m having a great time under Coach Soleen. She’s very disciplined and professional, which makes it easier for me to learn and grow as a player.

You come across as a highly physical and energetic player. How would you describe your playing style in your own words? And is there one aspect of your game you’re looking to improve?
I love playing simple, with one-twos and one-touch passes. I’m also capable of making through balls. I may not have the speed that some other players have, but I understand timing—when to make a run or intercept based on how the opponent moves. I take pride in making clean tackles; it’s satisfying to win the ball without fouling or injuring anyone. Whenever I lose the ball, I make sure to chase back and recover. I know I still have a lot to improve—especially my speed, strength, decision-making, and shooting.

With a packed 2025 ahead—featuring the FASWSL, Liga Wanita Nasional, AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers, and more—what are your personal goals for the year? What do you hope to achieve on and off the pitch?
My personal goal is to get called up again for the senior national team and to help Selangor become champions in every tournament we play. 

If you had the power to improve one aspect of women’s football in Malaysia, what would it be and why?
If I had the power to improve one aspect of women’s football in Malaysia, it would definitely be grassroots development and youth programs. The long-term growth and competitiveness of the sport depend heavily on building a strong foundation. Right now, women’s football here faces challenges like limited access to structured training, fewer youth competitions, and a lack of scouting or support systems. By investing in school programs, local leagues, coaching education, and community outreach—specifically for girls—we can develop skilled, confident players from a young age. It's not just about finding future national players; it's about creating a culture where girls feel encouraged, supported, and seen, both on and off the pitch.

To wrap up this interview, if you had the chance to partner with or represent any brand, which one would you choose and why? 
I would choose Adidas because I’ve been using Adidas football boots since I was a kid, and they’ve always been comfortable for me. Plus, my idol Lionel Messi represents Adidas, so it feels special to wear the same brand.