AFC U17 Q: Malaysia Late Drama Thrilling 2-1 Over Singapore
A dramatic 88th-minute winner from Fahim Akmal propelled Malaysia’s Under-17 squad to a hard-fought 2-1 victory over regional rivals Singapore on Saturday, reigniting their AFC U17 Asian Cup qualifying campaign in thrilling fashion.
Head coach Shukor Adan’s young charges finally claimed their coveted first victory of the AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers on Saturday, edging out Causeway rivals Singapore 2-1 in a high-intensity second group fixture that went right down to the wire.
Led on the pitch by captain Fareez Danial Fadzly alongside attacking focal point Ahmad Muzakif Fitri, Malaysia started on the front foot against a resolute Singapore side marshaled by skipper Aidan Irfan and shot-stopper Ilhan Hady.
The young Malaysians nearly drew first blood as early as the 12th minute when Aniq Thaqif unleashed a venomous strike, forcing a sharp parried save from Ilhan Hady. While both sides traded blows in an evenly contested opening spell, Malaysia consistently looked the more dangerous outfit going forward.
That attacking persistence finally paid dividends in the 33rd minute. Syaifullah Mahruzi showcased razor-sharp instincts inside the box, clinically finishing off a pinpoint cross from the left flank to fire Malaysia into a 1-0 lead.
However, Malaysia’s hopes of taking that advantage into the break were dashed just before half-time. Capitalizing on a late opening, Singapore’s Izzan Rifqi found the back of the net to restore parity, sending both teams into the dressing room deadlocked at 1-1.
The second half evolved into a fierce tactical tug-of-war as both regional rivals pushed aggressively for a decisive breakthrough. Malaysia cranked up the pressure in the final quarter, carving out a golden double opportunity in the 69th minute—only for two consecutive shots on target to be miraculously denied by Ilhan Hady and a desperate Singaporean backline.
Four minutes later, Syaifullah came within inches of securing a brace, unleashing a thunderous drive in the 73rd minute that rattled the crossbar with the goalkeeper beaten.
Just as the Causeway clash appeared destined for a stalemate, Malaysia delivered a sensational knockout blow in the 88th minute. Amidst a chaotic goalmouth scramble in front of Singapore’s net, Fahim Akmal reacted quickest to pounce on the loose ball and smash home the decisive winner.
Holding firm through the closing stages to seal the 2-1 triumph, Shukor Adan’s squad has breathed crucial new life into their qualifying campaign—bouncing back in style following their shocking opening-day defeat to Palestine.
Credit Photo : FAM
