Laos head coach Ha Hyeok-jun admitted that his side’s plan to hold Malaysia to a draw fell apart after a second-half collapse saw them suffer a 5-1 defeat in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers at Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
Laos had taken a surprise lead in the first half through 21-year-old midfielder Chanthavixay Khounthoumphone, but Malaysia came roaring back after the break, scoring five unanswered goals courtesy of Faisal Halim, Romel Morales, and Paulo Josue, along with a Khammanh Thapaseut own goal.
Speaking after the match, the South Korean coach revealed that his team’s initial strategy was to frustrate Malaysia and aim for a valuable point, but his players’ fatigue and the hosts’ attacking prowess proved too much to handle.
“Our plan was to make the game difficult for Malaysia and hopefully earn a draw,” said Ha Hyeok-jun.
“In the first half, we played well and managed to stick to our game plan.
“But in the second half, Malaysia’s strength and our players’ fatigue caused us to concede multiple goals. It didn’t go as planned.”
The defeat marks Laos’ third consecutive loss in Group F, leaving them rooted at the bottom of the standings. Ha emphasized that the experience against a strong Malaysian side will serve as a valuable lesson for his young squad, which includes several players under 20.
“We are still a developing team with many young players. Matches like this help them learn how to handle high-intensity football and improve mentally and physically,” he added.
Laos will next face Vietnam on November 19 in what will be another stern test for Ha’s youthful side as they continue their AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifying campaign.
Credit Photo : LFF
