KUALA LUMPUR – The Harimau Malaya managed to come back from a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 with Syria in a tier 1 friendly that took place at the East-Town Stadium in Chengdu, China today.
Syria opened the scoring in the 12th minute through Mardek Mrdkian’s shot from distance after a defensive error by Selangor’s Brendan Gan.
The Eagles of Qasioun, who are currently ranked 94th in the world, doubled their lead in the 41st minute with Yasin Alsamya’s header from a corner kick.
Hector Cuper’s team came close to scoring a third goal in the 47th minute with Mahmoud Al Mawas’ free kick, but it was saved by Johor Darul Ta’zim’s Ahmad Syihan Hazmi.
Malaysia retaliated in the 51st minute when JDT’s Akhyar Rashid netted past Syrian goalkeeper Taha Mousa, after running in behind the defence to receive a long pass from his club teammate Endrick.
Kim Pan-gon’s men continued to pressure the Syrians for the remainder of the game, and their efforts paid off when Sabah’s Darren Lok equalised for Malaysia in the 85th minute.
Malaysia are set to play their next friendly against China on Saturday. – September 6, 2023