PETALING JAYA: Amid the cloud of negativity surrounding Malaysia’s FIFA suspension, the Harimau Malaya responded in the best way by beating Laos 3-0 in their AFC Asian Cup 2027 third-round qualifier at the New Laos Stadium in Vientiane yesterday.
Malaysia were dominant from the first whistle, controlling possession and dictating the 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.
Malaysia’s breakthrough finally came in the 52nd minute when winger Arif Aiman Hanapi coolly slotted home to his side the lead.
That goal injected fresh confidence into the side and from then on, the Malaysians looked in complete control.
Captain Dion Cools 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 minutes of the match, inspirational winger Faisal Halim scored for Malaysia, making it 16 goals throughout his international career.
With this win, Malaysia sit comfortably at the top of their group with a perfect record - three wins from three matches and not a single goal conceded.
