It was a match Malaysia and Malaysians did not want because it meant preparations to go on through the festive Hari Raya holidays and the match taking place at a time when supporters would rather celebrate the holiday with their family. But all the sacrifice put in were quickly reimbursed after Malaysia ran out 7-1 winners against Timor Leste on Friday.
La'Vere Corbin-Ong, Shahrel Fikri, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Safawi Rasid (2), Faiz Nasir and Akhyar Rashid all got on the scoresheet as Malaysia ran riot against a hapless Timor Leste. Four goals in the first half set the tone of the match and the consolation goal the away side scored early in the second half only served to spur Malaysia on.