Heartbreak: A dejected Moses Raj (second from left) reacting with his teammates after the loss to Thailand in the semi-final match on Monday. —MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/The Star
BANGKOK: There were fears that Malaysia would collapse after rightback Aiman Yusoff Mohd Nabil was sent off in the 16th minute of their SEA Games football semi-final against Thailand.
The hosts had already taken an early lead through Yotsakorn Burapha in the eighth minute at the Rajamangala Stadium on Monday, leaving Harimau Muda facing an uphill battle.
But to the surprise of many, the young Malaysians stood firm and limited the damage, keeping the score at 0-1 after 90 minutes despite playing most of the match with 10 men.
Their resolute defensive display earned praise from coach Nafuzi Zain.
“First of all, congratulations to the Thai team,” said Nafuzi.
“I am proud of my charges because it was not an easy game. It was especially difficult when we were down to 10 men for almost 80 minutes.
“The players stuck to the game plan and showed resilience. ‘In fact, our players even created chances.
“I was happy with the character the players showed on the pitch.”
Nafuzi refused to single out Aiman for the defeat.
“I am not going to blame him because he is just 19. He lacked experience, but this will be a good lesson for him because he is talented,” he said.
“Yes, he could have controlled his emotions better after the first yellow, but the intensity of international football is very high.”
The coach also highlighted the challenges of having limited players due to injuries and club commitments.
“In previous tournaments, we had stronger squads. This time, everyone had to play, and the reserves took their chance. They showed good performances.”
Looking ahead, Nafuzi believes the experience gained will pay dividends, particularly with the next SEA Games set to be hosted in Kuala Lumpur.
“If we develop the right way, and have the players who are still eligible, the chances of winning gold in front of our supporters are high,” he said.
Malaysia will face the Philippines in the bronze-medal playoff on Thursday.
