Harimau Malaya U-17 Roar into Contention with Perfect Start in AFC Qualifiers
HANOI, Vietnam - The Harimau Malaya U-17 squad has ignited their campaign for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 with a powerful and perfect start, securing two crucial victories in the Group C qualifiers held in Hanoi, Vietnam. The young Tigers have demonstrated both devastating attacking power and gritty determination, immediately positioning themselves as frontrunners in the group.
Matchday 1: A Thunderous Start
Malaysia kicked off their qualifying journey in explosive fashion against the Northern Mariana Islands on Saturday, November 22, 2025. The match was a showcase of clinical finishing and relentless pressure, ending in a massive 13-0 victory.
The floodgates opened early, with young striker Iman Danish tearing apart the defense to secure a quick hat-trick in the opening minutes. The team went into the break with a commanding 7-0 lead, and the relentless attack continued into the second half, with goals from Nurikhwan Hazeem, Fahim Akmal, Alif Ashraf, and others sealing a comprehensive win. This result not only secured the first three points but also provided a vital boost to the team's goal difference, a crucial tie-breaker in qualification.
Score info: Iman Danish 5' 16' 20' Nabil Ikhwan 32' Iman Irfan 34' Arfan Haziq 40' 54' 90' Arrayan Hakeem 45' Alif Ashraf 50' Nurikhwan Hazeem 60' Jerz Navarro (GS) 66' Fahim Akmal 82'.
Matchday 2: Guts and Glory in a Tense Battle
Just two days later, on Monday, November 24, 2025, the U-17 squad faced a much stiffer challenge against Hong Kong, China. Unlike the free-scoring opener, this match was a tight, tactical battle that tested the mental fortitude of the young Malaysian side.
The match remained goalless deep into the game, with both defences holding firm. However, the Harimau Malaya U-17 team showed their championship prowess by digging deep and finding success. A goal by Iman Danish was crucial in the second half, scored in the 65th minute.
The young Tigers successfully defended their slim lead to clinch a vital 1-0 win, making it six points from six and maintaining a flawless defensive record. This victory, against a disciplined Hong Kong side, demonstrated the team's ability to grind out a result when flair is replaced by fight.
With two wins under their belt, the Harimau Malaya U-17 team has established a strong position in Group C. Their path to the final tournament depends on topping the group, or qualifying as one of the best runners-up.