Kuala lumpur: Malaysia beat Laos 5-1 in their Group F Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil here, tonight. The match saw Malaysia overturn a first-half deficit to secure an emphatic victory.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the game began with Laos taking an early lead as Chanthavisay Khounthoumphone scored in the 19th minute. However, the Malaysian team mounted a strong comeback in the second half. Muhammad Faisal Abdul Halim equalized for Malaysia in the 58th minute, followed by Romel Morales scoring twice in the 65th and 70th minutes. The match further tilted in Malaysia’s favor with an own goal by Khammanh Thapaseut in the 79th minute, and Paulo Josue sealed the victory with a goal in the 82nd minute.

The Malaysian lineup included players such as Mohd Shahrul Mohd Saad, Muhammad Afiq Fazail, and Dion Cools, who served as the team captain. Notable contributions came from Muhammad Faisal Abdul Halim and Romel Morales, whose performances were instrumental in the team’s turnaround in the second half. Laos’ team featured players like Kop Lokphathip and captain Bounphachan Bounkong, but they were unable to maintain their early lead against a resurgent Malaysian side.

The match officiated by referee Ahmed Eisa Darwish from the UAE, highlighted Malaysia’s determination and ability to adapt under pressure, earning them a significant win in their Asian Cup 2027 qualifying campaign.