BUKIT JALIL: National coach Tan Cheng Hoe praised his players for their performance in the 1-0 defeat to Jordan in Friday’s friendly at the National Stadium here.
An under-strength Jordan, without six regulars, dominated the first half and scored their only goal through Saeed Murjan in the seventh minute to hand Malaysia their second defeat of the season.
Despite the defeat, Cheng Hoe believes his team are ready to face Indonesia in the 2022 World Cup-2023 Asian Cup qualifying match against Indonesia in Jakarta on Thursday.
“There were more positives than negatives today. We did not start well and allowed Jordan to score a goal. After the breather, we had many chances but could not convert them,” said Cheng Hoe.
“I have to praise my players for their brave show. Of course, there are a few things we need to work on before we head to Jakarta.
“My players need to maintain their consistency and do better against Indonesia.”
Jordan coach Vitak Borkelmans said: “We had an amazing first half where we dominated and had many chances while Malaysia failed to create any.
“I tested several newcomers and they performed well. We did not have six regulars, so this win is a good result.
“Our regulars will join the team before we play Taiwan in the qualifiers,” he said.
Cheng Hoe fielded regulars Shahrul Saad, Adam Nor Azlin, Matthew Davies and La'Vere Corbin-Ong in defence while captain Farizal Marlias stood between the posts.
Danial Amier Norhisham earned his first cap while Brendan Gan made his first appearance since 2016 in midfield, marshalled by Nor Azam Azih while Safawi Rasid, Hadin Azman and Norshahrul Idlan Talaha played in attack.
Saeed netted after just seven minutes when he outfoxed Corbin-Ong and Adam for his eight goal for Jordan.
Malaysia started aggressively in the second half with substitute Syafiq Ahmad, who replaced Danial, heading wide, followed by attempts by Norshahrul and Safawi in the opening three minutes.
Malaysia continued to press but the Jordanian defence stood firm until the final whistle.