Faisal (right) fights for the ball against Nepal’s Sanish Shrestha. — MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/The Star
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia will close their 2025 season unbeaten after edging Nepal 1-0 in their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Group F third-round qualifier at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Tuesday (Nov 18).
Harimau Malaya's winner came in the 55th minute via Faisal Halim, who coolly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Kiran Chemjong after a brilliant through ball from playmaker Safawi Rasid.
Malaysia almost drew first blood as early as the second minute when wingback Dion Cools controlled a long pass from midfielder Nooa Laine, tricked a defender before sending his effort agonisingly wide.
Malaysia's momentum, however, took an early hit when winger Arif Aiman Hanapi suffered a hamstring injury in the eighth minute, forcing him off for the crafty Faisal to come on.
Cools threatened again in the 18th minute, rising to meet a teasing free-kick from Faisal, only to nod his attempt over the bar.
Nepal maintained a deep defensive block to frustrate the Malaysians, but the second half shifted decisively in the hosts' favour.
In the 90th minute, Malaysia were awarded a penalty after midfielder Laken Limbu fouled Stuart Wilkin and was sent off for a second yellow card.
Substitute striker Paulo Josue, however, skied his penalty but Malaysia were able to hang on for the win.
With the narrow victory, Malaysia capped a fine year with an eight-match undefeated run – seven wins and one draw – with victory secured in all their qualifying fixtures.
Malaysia remain firmly top of Group F with 15 points from five matches and need only a draw with Vietnam in their last group game on March 31 next year to book their spot at the 2027 Asian Cup.
Their campaign, however, may yet face turbulence if the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) decide to act against Malaysia if they fail to overturn FIFA's suspension of seven players at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
