Coach Tan Cheng Hoe, who earnestly longed for a win, gave out the strongest squad with Mohamadou Sumareh, Syafiq Ahmad, and Safawi Rasid.

On the other side of the field, coach Nishino also used his best players, including Supachok Sarachat, Ekanit Panya, Teerasil Dangda, and notably J.League star Chanathip Songkrasin.

Thailand played attacking on Malaysian soil and their preemptive attempts paid dividends with Chanathip’s goal in the 6th minute.

Malaysia quickly regained control and put mounting pressure on the guests. Brendan Gan assisted by Mohamadou equalized in the 27th minute. 

Both sides created several more chances  in the first half.

In the second half, Malaysia had a higher ball possession rate. Mohamadou Sumareh surprised the fans by running down and found the net in the 57th minutes, handing Malaysia a 2-1 lead. 

Nishino urged his players to increase pressure but Ekanit and Teerasil Dangda presented a poor finishing skill. 

With the 2-1 win, Malaysia keeps their unbeaten streak against Thailand on Bukit jalil stadium. 

Coach Tan’s  team now ranks 4th in group G with 6 points. Vietnam defeated the UAE 1-0 to take  the top spot with 10 points.