Malaysia’s U-19 futsal squad saw their ASEAN Futsal Cup U-19 2025 campaign end in heartbreak after crashing out at the semi-final stage, losing to hosts Thailand on penalties at the Nonthaburi PAO Gymnasium, Nonthaburi.
Despite being labelled underdogs, the young Malaysian side coached by Rakhpol Sainetngam produced a courageous and spirited performance, pushing the tournament favourites to the limit in a dramatic encounter.
Thailand struck first through Phakphum Thiamtee in the third minute, but the response from Malaysia was immediate. Selangor FC youngster Fitri Haqim Faizanizam restored parity just a minute later to lift the national camp.
Both teams continued to search for a breakthrough, but the score remained 1-1 at halftime.
After the restart, Malaysia showed greater composure and belief. Another Selangor FC player, Aidl Zaquan Mohd Azman, fired Malaysia ahead in the 26th minute before Adam Rayyan Nor Hisam extended the lead two minutes later to put Malaysia firmly in control.
However, Thailand refused to surrender. Monthana Jankrajang pulled one back eight minutes later, before the hosts switched to a power-play strategy. The gamble paid off as Phakphum struck again in the 39th minute to force extra time.
In the additional period, Thanakrit Ouansiri gave Thailand the lead in the 41st minute. A potential fifth goal by Thanathanakon Deeklang was later ruled out for a foul, offering Malaysia a lifeline.
With defeat looming, Iqbal Hazim Radzi emerged as the hero, smashing home a dramatic equaliser in the 48th minute to make it 4-4 after 50 minutes of pulsating action.
The match was ultimately decided via a penalty shootout, where Thailand held their nerve to prevail 4-2, booking their place in the final against Indonesia.
Malaysia, meanwhile, will regroup for the third-place playoff against Vietnam, carrying plenty of positives from a tournament that showcased the grit, character and growing potential of the nation’s next generation of futsal talent.
Credit Photo : FA Thailand
