The national team travelled to the Middle East for their opening game of the 2015 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers against Qatar in Doha. Prior to the game, the Harimau Malaya were beaten by 2007 Asian Cup champions Iraq 3-0 in a so-called friendly.
At the Al-Sadd stadium, Qatar were 2-0 winners over the Malaysians. Malaysian viewers could only join the game in around the 20th minute due to broadcasting issues from the host venue. (Note: Qatar are the hosts of 2022 World Cup)
Match Analysis
As expected, Qatar were the dominant side throughout the game. They were quick, composed and out-muscling the Malaysians most of the time. The Malaysians did hold on for a goalless scoreline at half-time. 10 minutes into the second period, a fluke Ibrahim Khalfan free-kick put Qatar ahead and a goal deep into injury-time finished the Tigers off.
The Malaysian full-backs were poor. Asra and Reuben were easily outpaced by the Qatari players. They could not get a grip on the ball, losing it on the 2nd or 3rd touches. Reuben's positioning was woeful. He was caught napping on a number of occasions (He was at fault for the second goal). Asra misplaced a few passes as well. On the other hand, the two-centre backs were good. Aidil and Fadhli Shas were effective at the back, both thwarting the Qataris a number of times.
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