PM on AFF Suzuki Cup: We played well and lost, let’s do better next time

BANGKOK: Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir joined Malaysians here to watch the AFF Suzuki Cup final as the Malaysian Tigers battled Vietnam at the MyDinh Stadium in Hanoi Saturday (Dec 15). 

Although the Harimau Malaya team failed to clinch the cup, the Prime Minister said the players played well, but luck was not on our side. 

"Our players played well. They managed to get near to scoring against Vietnam but they did not have much scoring opportunity. With a bit more effort, we have the potential to win in future matches. 

"I hope our players are not disappointed but use this as a lesson and experience to better their skills," said Dr Mahathir, after the game. 

Nguyen Anh Duc’s goal in the sixth minute at a packed My Dinh National Stadium on Saturday (Dec 15) was enough to ensure that Vietnam won 3-2 on aggregate.

The first leg of the final, which took place at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Dec 11, ended in a 2-2 draw.

About 50 Malaysians living and working in Thailand joined Dr Mahathir, his wife Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah to watch the game on a big screen at Plaza Athenee, where the Malaysian delegation is staying. 

Also present were the Malaysian ambassador to Thailand Jojie Samuel and his officials.

Dr Mahathir is currently in Bangkok to receive an honorary doctorate from Rangsit University tomorrow (Dec 16).