Malaysia National Team kicked off their September international calendar on a winning note, edging Singapore National Team 2-1 in a friendly clash at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium (SNBJ).
The Harimau Malaya entered the match seeking redemption after being eliminated by The Lions in the group stage of the 2024 ASEAN Championship, while Singapore were chasing their first win over Malaysia since 2022.
Malaysia’s first threat came as early as the 5th minute when Arif Aiman tested goalkeeper Izwan Mahbud, but his effort was denied. Moments later, João Figueiredo, Malaysia’s in-form striker from Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), also saw his attempt saved by the experienced Lion City Sailors goalkeeper.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 26th minute. After a neat exchange with Endrick dos Santos, Stuart Wilkin unleashed a thunderous strike that flew past Izwan to give Malaysia a deserved lead. It was Wilkin’s seventh international goal for Harimau Malaya, and the 1-0 scoreline stood until halftime.
Ten minutes after the restart, Malaysia extended their advantage. Wilkin turned provider with a precise cross that allowed Figueiredo to slot home his debut goal for the national team, much to the delight of the home supporters.
Trailing by two goals, Singapore head coach Gavin Lee made tactical changes to stem the tide, but Malaysia continued to dictate play.
National coach Peter Cklamovski then introduced fresh legs, bringing on Sergio Aguero and Quentin Cheng to maintain intensity.
Against the run of play, Singapore found a lifeline in the 72nd minute when substitute Ilhan Fandi capitalized on a defensive lapse to pull one back.
The goal reignited Malaysia’s urgency as Cklamovski sent in Gabriel Palmero and Romel Morales to stabilize control and push for a third goal. Despite both teams creating further opportunities, the scoreline remained 2-1 at the final whistle.
The result provides Malaysia with a confidence boost ahead of their next friendly against Palestine on September 8 at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, Iskandar Puteri.
Singapore, meanwhile, will return home to prepare for a closed-door friendly against Myanmar on September 9, as Gavin Lee continues to refine his squad for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifiers in October.
Credit Photo : Simon Yap/SNE-Photo
