'Free' win for young Tigers

Malaysia won their AFF Under-23 Championship opening match in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, yesterday, without kicking a ball after opponents Myanmar withdrew.

Several Myanmar players tested positive for Covid-19, resulting in their pullout from the Group B match.

The Asean Football Federation (AFF) confirmed Myanmar's withdrawal in a statement yesterday.

"Myanmar players were tested for Covid-19 in Cambodia, with several results returning positive.

"The team then decided to withdraw from the tournament before their opening match against Malaysia," said the AFF statement.

AFF President, Major General Khiev Sameth said the competition schedule will be revised.

Earlier, defending champions Indonesia had also pulled out from the competition after a Covid outbreak in their team.

Myanmar's withdrawal left only Malaysia and Laos in Group B. Brad Maloney's side only need to beat minnows Laos to top their group and qualify for the semi-finals.

Malaysia, however, are not free from Covid as two players tested positive recently. Shafi Azswad Sapari and Fahmi Daniel Zaaim have been quarantined in Phnom Penh.

They will be tested again 48 hours after completing quarantine.

Hosts Cambodia, Timor Leste, Brunei and the Philippines make up Group A, while Group C comprises Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore.

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