Malaysia’s Harimau Muda delivered a commanding comeback performance to down Laos 4–1 in their opening SEA Games match at the iconic Rajamangala Stadium, Bangkok.
Despite conceding early, the young Malaysian side—featuring goalkeeper Zulhilmi Sharani, KL City’s rising star Haqimi Azim, and captain Aysar Hadi—showcased impressive resilience and attacking firepower to secure all three points in style.
Laos, led by goalkeeper Kop Lokphathip and key man Somwang Choummaly, delivered a surprise blow just four minutes in.
A clever pass from Phouttavong Sangvilay found defender Bounpheng Xaysombut, who calmly slotted home to give the “Land of a Million Elephants” the early lead.
Stung by the goal, Malaysia pressed aggressively. Haqimi Azim and Haykal Danish both threatened the Laotian backline with dangerous runs and shots as Harimau Muda looked for a quick response.
The breakthrough arrived in the 33rd minute. A defensive mix-up by Laos inside their own penalty area allowed Haykal Danish—the Selangor wonderkid—to pounce and fire home the equaliser, sending the Malaysian supporters into celebration.
The first half ended 1–1, with Malaysia clearly the more dominant side.
Malaysia came out with renewed intensity after the break.
In the 47th minute, Aiman Hakimi unleashed a powerful long-range strike that narrowly missed but after three minutes, Laos responded through Chanthavixay, but Zulhilmi Sharani produced a sharp save.
After that, in the 59th minute, capitalising on a defensive blunder by Laos, Haqimi Azim punished the mistake to put Malaysia 2–1 ahead.
Moments later, in the 62nd minute, Selangor’s young midfielder Moses Raj rose above the defence to head in Malaysia’s third after a brilliant free-kick delivery from Danish Hakimi.
Laos’ misery worsened in the 85th minute when captain Phetdavanh Somsanid was sent off after receiving his second yellow card.
Deep into injury time, Muhammad Abu Khalil produced a classy lob to score Malaysia’s fourth, ending the night with a convincing 4–1 triumph.
A superb comeback, four clinical goals, and a strong opening statement from Malaysia U22 in their SEA Games campaign.
Credit Photo : FAM
