KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 14 (Bernama) -- Malaysia produced a stunning second-half comeback to crush Laos 5-1 in their fourth Group F match of the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil here tonight.
The first half saw the Harimau Malaya dominating possession but failing to convert their chances, as Laos goalkeeper Kop Lokphathip stood firm to deny several clear opportunities from the home side.
Malaysia were stunned in the 20th minute when Chanthavixay Khounthoumphone’s long-range strike deflected off Shahrul Saad and beat goalkeeper Ahmad Syihan Hazmi Mohamed, giving Laos a surprise 1-0 lead.
The national side, however, came roaring back after the break, with Mohamad Faisal Abdul Halim curling in a superb free kick in the 59th minute to level the score.
Romel Morales then combined with Arif Aiman Mohd Hanapi for Malaysia’s second in the 65th minute before slotting in his second of the night six minutes later off a Dion Cools assist.
A Khammanh Thapaseut own goal in the 79th minute and a late strike from substitute Paulo Josue three minutes later sealed the 5-1 rout, maintaining Malaysia’s unbeaten record after four matches and keeping them top of Group F with 12 points, followed by Vietnam (nine), Laos (three) and Nepal (none).
Malaysia will next face Nepal on Nov 18 before concluding their campaign against Vietnam in Hanoi next March.
-- BERNAMA
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