Malaysia lose 0-2 to Tajikistan in Merdeka Tournament final

Malaysia's captain and centreback Dion Cools tries to shield the ball from Tajikistan striker Rustam Soirov. – AHMAD IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/ The Star

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia failed to win the Merdeka Tournament after they lost to Tajikistan 2-0 in the final at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil here on Tuesday (Oct 17).

The Persian Lions drew first blood when striker Rustam Soirov scored in the 44th minute when he received a brilliant through pass from Alisher Shukorov.