Arif Aiman Hanapi
PETALING JAYA: Under the shadown of FIFA's suspension, Harimau Malaya roared back with pride by delivering a composed 3-0 win over Laos in their AFC Asian Cup 2027 third-round qualifier at the New Laos Stadium in Vientiane on Thursday (Oct 9).
The winning goals came through winger Arif Aiman Hanapi, captain Dion Cools and Faisal Halim, who stepped up in the absence of seven mixed-hertage players, currently under a 12-month ban over forged documents.
Malaysia led by Arif stayed focused from the first whistle, controlling possession and dictating tempo through the industrious midfield pairing of Nooa Laine and Nazmi Faiz Mansor.
The duo orchestrated wave after wave of attacks, though the finishing touch was missing early on.
The hosts adopted a defensive approach, sitting deep with a five-man backline in an attempt to stifle Malaysia’s attacking rhythm.
Striker Romel Morales found himself in promising positions but was left frustrated after missing three clear chances in the first half - opportunities that surely became a key talking point during the interval.
The breakthrough finally came in the 52nd minute when Arif coolly slotted home to give Malaysia the lead.
That goal injected fresh confidence into the side, and from then on, Harimau Malaya looked in complete control.
Dion doubled the advantage in the 68th minute with a well-taken finish, effectively sealing all three points for Peter Cklamovski’s men.
There was also a proud moment for winger Ramadhan Saifullah, who made his debut in the 81st minute, coming on for La’Vere Corbin-Ong.
In the dying stages of the match, inspirational winger Faisal scored for Malaysia, making it 16 goals throughout his international career.
With this result, Malaysia sit comfortably at the top of their group with a perfect record - three wins from three matches and not a single goal conceded.
