Malaysia prove too hot for Cambodia

MALAYSIA were not at their best, but it was still enough to secure a 2-0 win over Cambodia in an AFF Under-18 Championship Group A match at Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon yesterday.

Bojan Hodak’s side scored a goal in each half through Shafizi Iqmal Md Khirudin (22nd) and Syafiq Danial Romzi (55th) to remain undefeated and notch their fourth straight win.

“It was a very difficult match due to the humidity. Cambodia had no pressure going into this match, while it was a ‘must win’ game for us,” said Hodak yesterday.

“We scored two goals, but honestly we should have netted more from the many opportunities we had. Cambodia were in control for the final 20 minutes, but failed to create any serious chances.

“I rotated my players as today was our fourth game in seven days. I think my boys are slowly gelling into the system that I want them to play.”

In earlier matches, Malaysia defeated Laos (4-1), Singapore (3-1) and Timor Leste (3-0).

In another group match yesterday, Timor Leste edged Laos 3-2 for their first win in the tournament, while Thailand played Singapore in a late match.

Malaysia will complete their final group match against Thailand tomorrow which will decide the pool champions.