Mukhairi learns his lesson, will have to cheer on mates from sidelines

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia beat Cambodia 5-4 in their Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Under-19 Championship Group G qualifying opener in Phnom Penh, but one player is not exactly celebrating.

Midfielder Mukhairi Ajmal Mahadi, a key player for the National Under-19 side, was sent off for dissent and his absence affected the team’s shape. He will also miss the next match against Brunei tomorrow.

The PKNP player regrets the red card but says he had his reasons for protesting against the decision by Turkmenistan referee Kurbanov Charymurat.

“In the 58th minute, I just told the referee that my teammate was body charged and he stopped me from saying anything else,” said the 17-year-old.

“He was walking away but I was in his way. Then, he gave me my second yellow card and sent me off.

“At that time, I was upset because that gave Cambodia the opportunity to make a comeback.”

With Ahmad Zikri Mohd Khalili red-carded for a last man tackle a minute later, the young Tigers were reduced to nine men but still managed to fend off the Cambodians at the National Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh on Saturday.

“Imagine for 30 minutes, it was nine against 11. Obviously, I’m upset with my actions but I am thankful my teammates fought hard to get the win. It’s a good start, but also a lesson for us.”

After Brunei tomorrow, the team will take on Northern Mariana Islands on Friday before wrapping up their campaign against heavyweights Thailand on Sunday.

Mukhairi urged his teammates to give their all against Brunei.

“We cannot underestimate any team. We have to be on our toes and improve game-bygame.

“I am not happy that I can’t be on the field with my teammates on Wednesday but all 23 players in the team are good enough to be in the first 11. I always tell myself I’m not a sure starter. The sending-off is a lesson for me.

“Coach (Brad Maloney) always reminds us to learn from our mistakes. I will do just that, and give my all in the third game.”

Mukhairi said the boys have adjusted well to the conditions in Cambodia and even the artificial pitch.

“The weather here is similar to Malaysia’s, so there is no problem. As for the pitch, it’s pretty good.”