Paju: Malaysia began their AFC U-19 Championship 2018 Qualifiers Group F campaign on a high note, beating Timor-Leste 3-1 at the Paju Stadium in Korea Repubic on Tuesday.
After a scoreless first half which saw both teams' goalkeepers excelling, Malaysia returned to the pitch after the break with renewed vigour, as Muhammad Hadi Fayyadh broke the deadlock with an accurate header in the 53rd minute.
Nik Akif Syahiran, who set up the first goal, doubled Malaysia's lead with a powerful volley in the 67th minute, before substitute Muhammad Zhafir Yusof brought the scoreline to 3-0 in the 77th minute.
Timor-Leste got a consolation goal in the final minute with a penalty converted by Filomeno Junior Da Costa.
Bojan Hodak: Malaysia Head Coach
“Timor-Leste's aggressiveness in the first half affected us, but in the second half, we adapted to the situation, and fortunately we earned three points. I am very pleased with the winning start."
Kim Shin-whan: Timor-Leste Head Coach
"The defeat resulted from my tactical decision. The players were decent in the first half, but after conceding the first goal in the second half, the teamwork collapsed. I acknowledge our defeat, and will do our best to get the best result possible."
Photos: AFC
Source: the-afc.com