Raja’s men keep score low in defeat to China

Malaysian footballers put up a commendable performance which nevertheless did not stop China from winning 2-0 in Beijing.

Malaysia started with an all familiar starting 11 minus the likes of Fadhli Shas, Junior Eldstal and Wan Zack Haikal Wan Noor, who are with the national U23 side participating in the Merdeka Tournament.

The match, a preparation for the crucial 2015 Asian Cup qualifiers against Bahrain, also saw the return of skipper Safiq Rahim to the starting eleven.

Many had expected the much superior China to hand Datuk K. Rajagobal’s side a hiding, especially after they crushed a full strength AFF Suzuki Cup winners Singapore 6-1 on Sept 6, but that was not the case as Malaysia put everything in the way to stop the hosts from scoring.

In the end, it was goals by Zhi Zheng and Xuri Zhao in the 43rd and 57th minute which decided the game.
Malaysia will welcome Bahrain to KL next month before travelling to Manama for the return group fixture in November.

-Sports 247