Southeast Asia Malaysia

Thanabalan header secures SEA Games final spot for Malaysia

Malaysia U-22 booked their place in the 2017 SEA Games final with a narrow 1-0 victory over Indonesia U-22 on Saturday night.

Indonesia dominated the first half but failed to take their chances. The first half ended with both sides still looking to take a foothold in the semi-final.

The hosts grew into the game at Shah Alam Stadium with Jafri Firdaus Chew almost gave the Ong Kim Swee’s men the lead just past the hour mark.

The best chance for Indonesia came in the 62nd minute through their captain Evan Dimas, who did well to create space for an effort but his strike went wide.

Thanabalan Nadarajah was the hero for Malaysia after scoring the winning goal three minutes to the final whistle. He headed in a corner kick from Safawi Rasid.

Malaysia will face Thailand, who beat Myanmar 1-0 with a late goal in their semi-final clash, in the final match which will be held on August 29 at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.