Harimau Malaya U-17 Roar into Contention with Perfect Start in AFC Qualifiers
HANOI, Vietnam - The Harimau Malaya U-17 squad has ignited their campaign for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 with a powerful and perfect start, securing two crucial victories in the Group C qualifiers held in Hanoi, Vietnam. The young Tigers have demonstrated both devastating attacking power and gritty determination, immediately positioning themselves as frontrunners in the group.
Matchday 1: A Thunderous Start
Malaysia kicked off their qualifying journey in explosive fashion against the Northern Mariana Islands on Saturday, November 22, 2025. The match was a showcase of clinical finishing and relentless pressure, ending in a massive 13-0 victory.
The floodgates opened early, with young striker Iman Danish tearing apart the defense to secure a quick hat-trick in the opening minutes. The team went into the break with a commanding 7-0 lead, and the relentless attack continued into the second half, with goals from Nurikhwan Hazeem, Fahim Akmal, Alif Ashraf, and others sealing a comprehensive win. This result not only secured the first three points but also provided a vital boost to the team's goal difference, a crucial tie-breaker in qualification.
Matchday 2: Guts and Glory in a Tense Battle
Just two days later, on Monday, November 24, 2025, the U-17 squad faced a much stiffer challenge against Hong Kong, China. Unlike the free-scoring opener, this match was a tight, tactical battle that tested the mental fortitude of the young Malaysian side.
The match remained goalless deep into the game, with both defenses holding firm. However, the Harimau Malaya U-17 team showed their championship mettle by digging deep and finding the breakthrough. A crucial goal in the second half, scored in the 65th minute according to sources, proved to be the difference-maker.
The young Tigers successfully defended their slim lead to clinch a vital 1-0 win, making it six points from six and maintaining a flawless defensive record. This victory, against a disciplined Hong Kong side, demonstrated the team's ability to grind out a result when flair is replaced by fight.
With two wins under their belt, the Harimau Malaya U-17 team has established a strong position in Group C. Their path to the final tournament depends on topping the group, or qualifying as one of the best runners-up.