Aidil warns Malaysia of a tougher journey ahead in Suzuki Cup semis

PETALING JAYA: Centreback Aidil Zafuan Abdul Razak (pic) warned that Malaysia’s journey will only get tougher after reaching the AFF Suzuki Cup semi-finals.

The Harimau Malaya beat Myanmar 3-0 in their final Group A match, thanks to goals from Norshahrul Idlan Talaha (26th minute) and skipper Zaquan Adha Abdul Razak (48th and 88th) at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Saturday.

Malaysia, who finished second in Group A with nine points, are expected to take on Group B leaders Thailand in the two-leg semi-finals in Bukit Jalil on Dec 1.

Centreback Aidil, who picked up the manof-the-match award for his gutsy display, said that the win was a team effort and kept all his teammates on guard for the semi-finals.

“I’m shocked to win the man-of-the-match award. Our target was to win the match and I think everyone did well to get the win,” said Aidil in the post-match press conference.

“I believe there’s still room for improvement and it’ll be tougher no matter who we meet in the semi-finals.”

Aidil’s twin brother Zaquan, who has now scored three goals in four matches, admitted that his second goal against Myanmar was-rather fortunate.

The ball coming off a Myanmar player’s clearance hit Aidil’s face and ended up in the back of the net for Malaysia’s third goal.

“It’s a unique goal but a goal’s a goal – it doesn’t matter how the ball goes in. I’m just glad that the ball went in,” said the 31-yearold Seremban-born Zaquan.

It’s a unique goal but a goal’s a goal – it doesn’t matter how the ball goes in. I’m just glad that the ball went in. Aidil Zafuan Abdul Razak