Malaysia place behind Vietnam in Asian Cup qualifiers despite opening win

Hector Hevel (number 13) celebrates after scoring the opening goal for Malaysia in their 2-0 win over Nepal in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium on March 25, 2025. Photo by FAM

Vietnam defeated Laos 5-0 on Tuesday night, just an hour and a half before Malaysia kicked off their match at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium. With both teams on three points, Vietnam topped the group thanks to better goal tally.

The match marked the official debut of new head coach Peter Cklamovski, who fielded a refreshed Malaysia squad. The team featured key players from domestic powerhouse Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), including goalkeeper Syihan Hazmi, defenders Matthew Davies, Shahrul Saad and Lavere Corbin-Ong, star winger Arif Aiman and striker Romel Morales.

In addition, Malaysia welcomed Spanish-born midfielder Hector Hevel, who currently plays for Portimonense in Portugal. The 28-year-old spent years playing in the Spanish lower leagues and quickly became a dominant presence in midfield.

Against FIFA-ranked 175th Nepal, Malaysia controlled possession throughout the match. The midfield trio of Hevel, Harith Haiqal and Endrick (playing for HCMC FC in Vietnam) kept the visitors pinned back with their control and distribution.

Malaysia’s first goal came in the 29th minute when Hevel unleashed a long-range strike into the top right corner after an attacking sequence, giving goalkeeper Kiran Kumar no chance. The play was started by Arif Aiman, who broke through the right flank to create space for the build-up.

Aiman, widely regarded as Malaysia’s most prominent football talent, continued to shine throughout the match. He threatened Nepal’s defense with his pace and technical skill, creating several chances for his teammates. In the 50th minute, he struck the side netting, and minutes later, earned a dangerous free kick. Dion Cools attempted a Ronaldo-style strike that narrowly missed the left post.

The second goal came in the 70th minute, following a clever set-piece play. Endrick passed to Hevel, who put the ball down the right. Aiman made a smart run into the box and delivered a precise cross to the far post, where Corbin-Ong finished into an empty net.

Coach Cklamovski made several substitutions starting from the 74th minute, including forward Faisal Halim, who received an acid attack last year but came back strong.

Malaysia could not add to their lead for the rest of the game, ending the match with a 2-0 victory.

With only the group winner guaranteed a place at the 2027 Asian Cup, Malaysia's next match, at home against Vietnam on June 10, is considered the most crucial. The clash is being viewed as a pivotal first-leg final in the group.