PETALING JAYA: Harimau Muda led by coach Nafuzi Zain has suffered a shock 2-0 loss to the Philippines in their opening match at the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Under-23 Championship at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta on Tuesday (July 15).
Filipino striker Otu Abang Banatao, only 18, was the hero for the winning side when he scored a brace in the 13th and 42nd minutes.
Malaysia, however, had the lion's share of possession at 72% with 21 chances created but were not clinical enough in front of their opponents' goal.
To stand any chance of a strong showing in the competition, Malaysia must now beat Brunei on July 18 and hosts Indonesia on July 21 – both at the same venue.
