Malaysia qualified for the AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 Finals despite falling 4-0 to Iran in their final Group G match at the SUKPA Indoor Stadium, Kuantan.
Both teams entered the clash knowing that qualification could be secured directly as group winners, but even in defeat, Malaysia are on track to progress as one of the best group runners-up.
Head coach Rakhpol Sainetngam made just one change to his starting lineup, introducing Saad Sani in place of Mahadir Harahap Khairuddin.
Iran wasted no time stamping their authority, with Mehdi Mehdikhani finding the net in the third minute. The 13-time Asian champions doubled their lead in the 12th minute through Hossein Derakhshani, who calmly slotted past Malaysian keeper Syaifuddin Syukri.
Malaysia’s best chance of the half came in the 16th minute when Syahir Iqbal Khan Akbar Khan forced Iran’s goalkeeper Saied Momeni into a crucial save. The hosts held firm, keeping the score at 2-0 at the break.
The second half saw Iran continue to press, but Malaysia’s defensive discipline frustrated their opponents. However, in the 33rd minute, Iranian captain Hossein Tayyebi reacted quickest to a rebound off the post to make it 3-0.
Three minutes later, Ali Khalilvand Somehsofla added a fourth, leaving Malaysia with a mountain to climb.
Malaysia nearly reduced the deficit in the 38th minute when Saad Sani struck the post, much to the disappointment of the home crowd. Despite late pressure, the match ended 4-0 in Iran’s favour.
Although Malaysia were second best on the night, their earlier victories in the group stage leave them qualified for the AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 in Jakarta.
Credit Photo : FAM
