
Malaysia get 'Pinoy lesson' at U-23 Asean Championship
The Young Tigers were expected to ease past their opponents, but a first-half brace from 18-year-old Otu Bisong left coach Nafuzi Zain with a nightmare start in his first outing in charge.
Bisong punished Malaysia's sluggish defence early, striking in the ninth minute before doubling the lead in the 40th with a slick counterattack that left the backline flat-footed.
Despite enjoying 70 per cent possession, Malaysia were toothless in attack and wasted a string of chances — a pattern that proved costly.
"The players were nervous and guilty of ball-watching. We created chances but just couldn't convert," said a visibly frustrated Nafuzi after the match.
Malaysia will now look to salvage their campaign against Brunei on Friday before facing hosts Indonesia in their final group match on July 21.

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The Sun
7 hours ago
- The Sun
Malaysia U-23 aims for comeback win vs Brunei in AFF U-23 2025
NATIONAL Under-23 (U-23) squad head coach Nafuzi Zain remains optimistic that Malaysia will recover from their opening defeat to secure a win against Brunei in the 2025 AFF U-23 Championship. The match will take place at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta tomorrow. Following a 0-2 loss to the Philippines in their first Group A game, Nafuzi said his team has moved on and is fully focused on securing three points to keep their semi-final hopes alive. 'The players are still in high morale and they regret the recent defeat but they promised to bounce back with a victory against Brunei,' he said in a video shared by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM). Despite Brunei's heavy 0-8 loss to Indonesia, Nafuzi warned against underestimating their opponents. 'It is true that Brunei lost by a big margin to Indonesia, but my focus is only on the team's preparation. If we don't play well even against a weak team, we will not be able to win,' he added. Malaysia currently sits third in Group A with no points, trailing Indonesia and the Philippines, who both have three points. Brunei is at the bottom of the table, also without any points. - Bernama


The Star
9 hours ago
- The Star
Vietnam footballers target third straight Asean U23 title
HANOI: Coach Kim Sang-sik is hoping to win his first trophy with the young squad as Vietnam will begin their defence of the Asean U23 Mandiri Cup title on July 19 in Jakarta, Indonesia. 'I am happy to be by Vietnam's side in this tournament. Vietnam have won this championship twice, which puts a little pressure on my players, but we have worked hard for the best result," said Kim in a press conference on July 15. "My players are asked to be hardworking and focused, ensuring a good level of fitness and sharp tactical minds. We treat every match like a final and aim to win them all." Kim signed a two-year contract with the Vietnam Football Federation last May, and led the senior side to the Asean Championship title in January. It is the first time that the South Korean will lead the young squad, and he is looking to enjoy more success. 'They are younger, more enthusiastic, and listen carefully to instructions. Over the past two weeks of training, I have seen that they are quick learners who have built a good team and show great passion and motivation. I look forward to seeing them improve with each match," he said. 'We have set a target of earning the top place in this tournament. The performance of our young players depends on our preparation and spirit. For me, all rivals should be respected, and we need to prepare well.' As the reigning champions, Vietnam are considered at a higher level compared to Laos and Cambodia, which have games scheduled on July 19 and 22, respectively. Vietnam are widely expected to progress to the semi-finals. Kim expects a much tougher for his side in the knock-out stage. He confirmed that hosts Indonesia and former winners Thailand are Vietnam's main rivals in their push to win a third consecutive title in the tournament, which takes place from July 15 to 29. 'From what I know and have observed, Thailand and Indonesia have always been strong contenders,' said the former international defender. 'Thailand stand out with their technique and solid organisation, while Indonesia impress with their physical strength and speed. Matches against them are always intense and competitive, so we need to prepare thoroughly.' In winning the last two editions of the Asean U23 Championship, Vietnam have locked horns with both rivals. They edged Thailand 1-0 in the 2021 final before overcoming Indonesia in a penalty shootout two years ago following a goalless draw in the final. While Kim wants his side to continue their proud tradition in the tournament, he is also careful not to add pressure on his young players. 'Winning back-to-back Asean U23 Championships is a source of pride for us. However, rather than putting ourselves under too much pressure, we want to focus on giving our best in every match,' said the 48-year-old. 'I encourage the players to view this tournament as an opportunity to grow and develop, rather than solely aiming for achievements. In my opinion, the results will naturally follow from that process. 'This tournament is not just about competing for the title. It allows us to assess each player's capabilities and to utilise different combinations to enhance our tactical cohesion. For young players, it's also a valuable chance to gain international match experience.' Thailand, who will kick off their tournament on July 19 against Timor Leste, plan to overthrow Vietnam this time. Coach Thawatchai Dumrongongtrakun said his side is aiming for the trophy, despite strong opponents. "This is my first time leading the U23 team, but I have full confidence in the players' ability and spirit. I completely believe that this team are capable of winning the championship," he said. "Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia are serious rivals, but if we can overcome the group round and study them well, I believe that Thailand will be champions." In Group C, Thailand are the top candidate for the top position, but Thawatchai warned his players not to be overconfident. He said he considers this regional tournament as a stepping stone to prepare for bigger playgrounds in the future. Group A's first matches were held on July 15. Indonesia trounced Brunei 8-0, while Malaysia suffered a surprise 0-2 defeat to the Philippines. - Vietnam News/ANN


New Straits Times
9 hours ago
- New Straits Times
Young Tigers urged to find their bite after shock Asean defeat
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia must beat Brunei in their second Group A match at the Under-23 Asean Championship in Jakarta on Friday to keep their hopes alive after a shock 2-0 defeat to the Philippines in their opener. Coach Nafuzi Zain blamed early defensive lapses and a lack of composure for Tuesday's loss but praised his young players for their fighting spirit. With most of his squad aged between 19 and 21, Nafuzi believes the experience will help them grow, but admitted their issues in attack and defence must be resolved immediately. Key players Alif Izzuan and Haqimi Azim Rosli are doubtful for the Brunei clash, adding to Malaysia's problems. The Young Tigers now sit third in the group, behind the Philippines and hosts Indonesia, who hammered Brunei 8-0 on Tuesday. Only the group winners advance to the semi-finals, leaving Nafuzi's side with no choice but to win both remaining matches, starting with Brunei. "We can't dwell on the defeat," said Nafuzi. "We must fix our shortcomings, especially in defence and attack. The Brunei match is crucial, and we'll do whatever it takes to win." The defeat to the Philippines has reignited concerns over Malaysia's youth development system, especially as the senior team have enjoyed some success recently with naturalised players. On Tuesday, Malaysia registered 21 shots, hit the post twice and had a goal disallowed, but again, poor finishing proved costly, a recurring issue in recent tournaments. Still, Nafuzi remains hopeful. He urged fans to keep the faith. "Fan support is important. Even if they're not in Jakarta, I know we still have backing from home," he said. "I apologise for not delivering a win, but we'll improve our preparations for the Brunei and Indonesia matches." Meanwhile, Brunei coach Aminuddin Jumat is using the tournament to give his young players exposure to top-level regional football. Despite the thrashing by Indonesia, he believes the experience will benefit the team in the long run. "There are many talented players in the region. We came here with clear objectives and to compete with courage," said Aminuddin. "We'll take this tournament one game at a time." With their backs against the wall, Malaysia must now deliver. Anything less than three points against Brunei will almost certainly end their Asean campaign. FIXTURES Tomorrow (July 18) Group A Brunei v Malaysia (6pm) Philippines v Indonesia (9pm)