KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's Under-23 Asian Cup qualifiers got off to a bad start with a 1-0 loss to Lebanon in Group F at the Thammasat Stadium in Bangkok today.

Despite appearing dominant in play, Nafuzi Zain's team were ultimately undone by Ali El Fadl's powerful strike in the 83rd minute.

The first half saw Malaysia controlling much of the game and orchestrating several attacks, but none was sufficient to breach Lebanon's goal.

The second half resumed with the Young Tigers piling on the pressure, but Lebanon's defence remained disciplined, closing down spaces and denying the Malaysian any clear openings.

Malaysia will next face Mongolia on Saturday before concluding their qualifying campaign against hosts Thailand on Sept 9.