Kuala Lumpur:Malaysia began their 2027 Under-17 Asian Cup qualifying campaign on a disappointing note, suffering a 2-0 defeat to Palestine in their opening Group E match at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Palestine took the lead in the 17th minute with Yazan Khalifah scoring from a free-kick inside the penalty box. Despite several efforts by Muhammad Shukor Adan’s national Under-16 team to equalize, they failed to find the back of the net before halftime.

Palestine extended their advantage seven minutes into the second half when Yousef Bustami capitalized on a defensive lapse, securing the lead for Mohammad Yousef Mohammad Sharbaji’s side. Malaysia had an opportunity to narrow the gap through a late penalty, but Ahmad Aidil Mukhridz Ahmad Ridzalman’s shot was saved by the Palestinian goalkeeper.

A potential goal by Mohamad Fazryel Ashraf Zefri following a rebound was disallowed due to an offside call. The victory allows Palestine to earn three points, putting them level with Singapore, who won against Guam in another Group E match.