Malaysia start positively in the first 10 minutes chasing and control the ball showing sign that this going to be an easy game for three points. But Laos react well to stop all Malaysia attack engineer by Hardi Jaafar, Amirul Hadi and Khyril Muhaimeen in the first half.

Malaysia best chance in the first half coming through Khyril Muhaimeen which his header went wide. It was Helmi Heliza in Malaysia post that save the blushes for Malaysia stopping Laos from opening their account. Laos came close from free kick where Helmi Heliza doing acrobatic saves to push the ball out for corner kicks.

In second half, Sathia change his tactical throwing in Zaquan Adha for Amirul Hadi Zainal and Safee Sali replacing Hardi Jaafar. Safee Saali and Zaquan Adha change the pace of the game where Malaysia becoming aggressive attacking Laos. Finally, Safee Sali breaks the deadlock to kick in corner taken by Indraputra to make B. Sathianathan and Malaysian supporter’s relief.

Malaysia second goal come from set pieces where Indraputra put the ball on keeper right. Safee Saali sealed the game to lob his header past Laos goalkeeper.

Malaysia should change their tactical against Vietnam in the second match. Hairuddin Omar never give any threat to the opponent even he have one clear chance to score tonight but kick miserably from his left foot. Safee Saali and Zaquan Adha should play upfront to mess the defender with their pace. Indra should play on wide left with Amirul or Khyril playing on the right side.

Credits to Malaysia backline and Helmi Eliza Elias.