Harimau Malaya defeated Indonesia 2-0 in Tuesday’s pre-World Cup Group G match and Timesport’s Ooi Kin Fai rates the performance of the players (ratings in brackets)
KHAIRULAZHAN KHALID (6)
Only 22 minutes of action for the goalkeeper following a hamstring injury sustained when he stopped Febri Hariyadi from scoring in a one-on-one situation.
SYAHMI SAFARI (6)
The right-back had a decent game. However, he was poor in attack with plenty of unsuccessful crosses.
SHAHRUL SAAD (7)
Coped well going up against the physical power of Greg Nwokolo. Another solid performance from the centre-back.
AIDIL ZAFUAN RADZAK (9)
The star of the show. The centre-back did not put a single foot wrong in the match. He exuded preciseness in anticipation and decision-making.
LA’VERE CORBIN-ONG (8)
Another outstanding display from the lanky left back. Used his pace in tracking back and also put that to good use in adding depth in attack.
NOR AZAM AZIH (7)
Azam took a more backseat role this time in midfield but was still very tidy with his distribution and all-round game.
BRENDAN GAN (7)
Brendan remained a big presence in midfield on a night where he did most of his good work in the defensive sense.
SYAMER KUTTY ABBA (7)
The midfielder’s first touch and control was immaculate. He kept the ball well for Malaysia.
MOHAMADOU SUMAREH (6)
A difficult game for the winger who started as the central striker. He was lacking the nous and only looked comfortable when he moved out to the flanks after the breather.
SAFAWI RASID (8)
Take out the two goals and his match highlights would have looked ordinary. But Safawi is increasingly becoming a very effective player who can produce moments like he did on Tuesday.
AKHYAR RASHID (4)
Horrendous 45 minutes from the youngster. Given a big chance to feature right from the start, but poor decision making and control let him and the coach down, leading to his substitution at the start of second half.
SUBSTITUTES
FARIZAL MARLIAS (7)
Was not called upon much but did stand up to be counted when needed. Blocked Osas Saha’ penalty to help Malaysia achieve their first clean sheet of the campaign.
NORSHAHRUL IDLAN TALAHA (6)
His arrival on the pitch gave Malaysia a better shape than what Sumareh provided in the first half. But poor first touches saw quick counter attacks broken down.
AFIQ FAZAIL (NA)
Played only for 10 minutes.