Malaysia beat Vietnam 4-0 in Asian Cup qualifier

The match at Bukit Jalil National Stadium saw the hosts dominate from start to finish. Although the first half ended scoreless, thanks in large part to several crucial saves from Vietnam goalkeeper Nguyen Filip, the second half turned into a nightmare for the visitors.

Vietnam, playing in red, started cautiously but immediately faced immense pressure from Malaysia’s lineup, which featured several naturalized players. Defender Jason Pendant, a recent addition to the Vietnamese squad, made his debut but was quickly tested in the early minutes.

Malaysia’s attacking intent was evident from the start. In the first 10 minutes, Vietnam struggled to break free from their own half. The hosts created numerous chances, including a powerful long-range strike from Dion Cools that rattled the post and a string of headers and shots that forced Filip into spectacular saves. Vietnam suffered a blow when key center-back Thanh Chung left the pitch injured, replaced by Pham Xuan Manh.

Vietnam managed a few promising moments, with Chau Ngoc Quang going close after a chaotic sequence in Malaysia’s box. However, the first half ended 0-0.

Second-half collapse

After the break, Vietnam made changes up front and in defense, hoping to find a breakthrough. Instead, it was Malaysia who seized control.

Just four minutes into the second half, Joao Figueiredo broke the deadlock for Malaysia. Allowed space near the box, the Brazilian forward’s shot took a deflection off Duy Manh, leaving Filip with no chance.

Minutes later, Malaysia doubled their lead. An incisive passing move found Argentine striker Rodrigo Holgado inside the penalty area, who neatly finished to make it 2-0.

The floodgates opened as Malaysia continued their relentless attacks. In the 67th minute, La'Vere Corbin-Ong tapped in Aiman’s cross from the right flank to put the hosts up 3-0. Despite Vietnam’s attempts to respond - bringing on attacking players like Nguyen Quang Hai and Tien Linh. the team struggled to create meaningful chances.

Malaysia sealed the rout in the 88th minute when Dion Cools, left unmarked, headed in a pinpoint cross to complete the 4-0 scoreline.

The defeat marks Vietnam’s worst-ever loss to Malaysia and leaves them with a mountain to climb in the return leg next March.