KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia have managed a commendable 1-1 friendly draw against China at the Phoenix Hill Stadium in Chengdu today.
The Harimau Malaya struck first in the 11th minute through Faisal Halim’s 22-yard shot after a defensive error by China’s Zhang Linpeng.
The Selangor winger beat Chinese goalkeeper Yan Junling, thus netting his 11th international goal in 24 appearances for the national team.
Meanwhile, the Dragons, ranked 80th in the world, equalised in the 36th minute with Lin Liangming’s curler.
China came close to scoring a second in the 40th and 44th minutes, with attempts from Li Shuai and Deng Han Wen testing the Malaysian defence.
The match also saw nine minutes of second-half injury time being played.
This result ensured that Malaysia gained an additional +1.93 FIFA points after successfully earning +1.4 after their 2-2 draw against Syria on Wednesday.
Kim Pan-gon’s men will next participate in the 42nd edition of the Pestabola Merdeka tournament, which is set to take place from October 13 to 17 at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium here.
Malaysia will face Palestine, India and Tajikistan in the tournament. – September 9, 2023