Malaysia U23 national team endured a disappointing start to their ASEAN U23 Mandiri Cup 2025 campaign after suffering a 2-0 defeat to the Philippines in their Group A opener on Tuesday at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta.
Hoping to collect their first three points and ease their path to the semi-finals, Head Coach Nafuzi Zain’s side fielded a strong lineup featuring attacking duo Fergus Tierney and Aliff Izwan, while the Philippines were led by Kaya FC midfielder Gavin Muens and forward Javier Mariona.
Malaysia began the match brightly, with Aliff Izwan coming closest early on when his powerful strike forced a sharp save from Philippine goalkeeper Nico Guimaraes.
However, it was the Philippines who struck first. In just the 9th minute, Otu Banatao pounced on a well-placed cross from Javier Mariona to tap home the opening goal, stunning the Malaysian defence.
In response, the Harimau Muda launched waves of attacks. A thunderous long-range shot from Haqimi Azim rattled the crossbar, and moments later, Fergus Tierney appeared to have equalised with a brilliant header from Haykal Danish’s corner – but the goal was controversially disallowed for a foul in the buildup.
Malaysia were made to pay for their missed chances. Just five minutes before halftime, a lapse in concentration at the back allowed Banatao to punish the defence once again, netting his second goal and doubling the lead for the Young Azkals.
After the break, Malaysia pushed harder to get back into the game. Haykal Danish had a golden opportunity to score but lost his footing on the rain-affected pitch at the crucial moment. Tierney continued to threaten the Philippines’ goal but was denied by a resolute defence determined to keep a clean sheet.
Despite their efforts, Malaysia couldn’t find a breakthrough, and the match concluded with a 2-0 win for the Philippines, handing Nafuzi Zain’s side a difficult start to the tournament.
Malaysia will now need to bounce back quickly when they face Brunei on Friday, while the Philippines prepare for a showdown against host nation Indonesia later that evening.
Credit Photo : FAM
