Malaysia Holds India to 1-1 Draw in Friendly, Missed Chances Cost Both Sides*

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 19 — Malaysia played to a hard-fought 1-1 draw against India in a Tier 1 international friendly at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad last night, with both teams failing to capitalize on key opportunities.

Despite the ongoing controversy over three Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) players being released early from national duty, Malaysia put up a strong performance. The match saw Malaysia take the lead in the 19th minute when Indian goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu mishandled a long-range pass, allowing Paulo Josue to score. 

India equalized in the 38th minute through Rahul Bheke, who headed in a corner from Brandon Fernandes. Both teams pressed for the winner in the second half, with Malaysia’s Daniel Ting narrowly missing from a tight angle, and India’s Lallianzuala Chhangte shooting high after a quick counter-attack.

Malaysia’s best chance to regain the lead came in the final moments, but substitute Fergus Tierney’s header hit the post, and Gurpreet saved Muhammad Safawi Rasid’s follow-up shot in extra time.

The draw denied India revenge for their 4-2 loss to Malaysia in the 2023 Pestabola Merdeka. Malaysia made seven changes to their lineup from the previous friendly, as they prepare for the 2024 ASEAN Championship, which kicks off next month.