Malaysia national team reached to final again after beating Philippines national team scoring 2-1 in the Pestabola Merdeka 2024 semi-final at Bukit Jalil National Stadium, Kuala Lumpur.
The Philippines, ranked 147th in the world, started strong, testing Malaysia’s defense within the first minute with a dangerous shot from Dylan Demuynck, which was saved by goalkeeper Ahmad Syihan Hazmi Mohamed. Malaysia, known as Harimau Malaya, initially struggled to find their rhythm but managed to create a few chances without success.
In the 27th minute, the Philippines took the lead when Jefferson Tabinas’ shot deflected off Malaysian defender Feroz Baharudin and found its way into the net. However, just before halftime, Syamer Kutty Abba brought Malaysia level, scoring from a pass by Feroz to make it 1-1.
The turning point came in the 73rd minute when substitute Safawi Rasid scored from the penalty spot after Arif Aiman Hanapi was fouled by Matthew Baldisimo, giving Harimau Malaya a 2-1 lead. The match heated up five minutes later when a confrontation occurred between Philippine defender Paul Tabinas and Arif Aiman, but the situation was quickly controlled.
Despite both teams launching attacks in the final stages of the match, no more goals were scored, and Malaysia held on to secure their place in the final. This victory allows Malaysia to compete for the title after finishing as runners-up in the 2023 Merdeka Festival, where they lost 0-2 to Tajikistan in the final.
Malaysia will now face Lebanon in the final, while the Philippines will compete against Tajikistan for third place.
Credit Photo : FAM
