Malaysia U19 National Team continued their impressive start to the ASEAN U19 Championship 2026 after securing a commanding 4-0 victory over Brunei U19 National Team in their second Group B match.
Following an encouraging opening win against Singapore, head coach Nafuzi Zain demanded another professional performance from his young charges—and they delivered in style to move a step closer to the semi-finals.
The result sees Malaysia climb to the top of Group B with a maximum six points, placing the Young Tigers firmly on course for a place in the knockout rounds.
Once again, Malaysia’s attacking hopes were spearheaded by promising forwards Abid Safaraz Rozaidi and Arayyan Hakeem Norizam, who caused constant problems for the Brunei defence from the opening whistle.
Malaysia started aggressively, pressing high and creating a series of early opportunities that forced Brunei goalkeeper Safwan Aflie Md Shahrin into several important saves.
The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 22nd minute, although it came in unfortunate circumstances for Brunei. Defender Mahmud Khalish Zaifulizham inadvertently turned the ball into his own net under pressure, handing Malaysia a deserved 1-0 lead.
The opening goal boosted Malaysia’s confidence as Nafuzi’s side continued to dominate possession and territory.
Their persistence was rewarded just before halftime when Arsyad Shamsul Aswadi rose highest to meet an excellent delivery from Arayyan Hakeem, powering a header beyond Safwan Aflie to make it 2-0.
The two-goal cushion reflected Malaysia’s superiority during the opening 45 minutes and provided a solid platform heading into the second half.
Brunei returned after the interval with greater defensive discipline and initially succeeded in slowing Malaysia’s attacking momentum.
Recognising the need for fresh energy, Nafuzi introduced several substitutions to inject pace and creativity into the final third.
The changes proved decisive. Malaysia’s relentless pressure eventually broke Brunei’s resistance, with Ierfan Hafizan Hafiz finding the net to extend the lead before Irfan Aswad Roslan completed the scoring with Malaysia’s fourth goal of the afternoon.
The victory places Malaysia in a strong position heading into the final round of Group B fixtures.
However, the group standings could still shift depending on the outcome of the clash between Singapore and Thailand, with the latter expected to be Malaysia’s biggest challenger for top spot.
Malaysia’s final group-stage encounter against Thailand on June 8 is now shaping up to be a decisive battle that could determine the Group B champions.
Under tournament regulations, the three group winners and the best runner-up will advance to the semi-finals scheduled for June 11.
Credit Photo : FAM
