FIGHT FAR FROM OVER FOR MALAYSIANS

Instead, the Malaysians are determined to push on and claim victory in their remaining group matches against Timor Leste and Myanmar.

Prevailing in their last two matches tomorrow and on Saturday will give Malaysia a good chance of making the semi-finals.

“There are still two matches to go and we still are in with a chance of qualifying. We must respect all our our opponents. Both Myanmar and Timor Leste will also want to do well,” said Ong Kim Swee after last night’s match.

Malaysia held Vietnam in the first half, especially because of the brave efforts of goalkeeper Mohd Khairul Izzuwan who pulled off some brilliant saves.

Vietnam stepped on the gas after the break and cracked the Malaysian defence in the 47th and 61st minutes through strikers Nguyen Dinh Bao and skillful skipper Nguyen Van Quyet.

“It was a good game and Vietnam played well. The second half was different as Vietnam players used their speed to kill us with two quick goals. They have some very good players and I believe they will
give the other teams some problems.”

Kim Swee is also hoping that his players will have recovered for the second match tomorrow against Timor Leste.

“We just arrived one day before our opening match. Also, five of our players had played on Sunday.”

Timor Leste, who arrived yesterday and missed their opening match in the evening, will be determined to make up for the walkover.

And the ones who will be on the receiving end will be the Malaysians.

As little is known about Timor Leste, tomorrow’s match could well provide some surprises.