Malaysia and Lebanon Secure Wins, Set to Face Off in Merdeka Tournament Final

Malaysia and Lebanon have advanced to the final of the 2024 Merdeka Tournament after securing victories in their respective matches on Wednesday.

Hosts Malaysia had to fight back from behind to defeat the Philippines 2-1. The Philippines took the lead in the 27th minute when Jefferson Tabinas’ cross deflected off Feroz Baharudin and past goalkeeper Ahmad Syihan Hazmi. However, Malaysia equalized just before halftime with a controlled finish by Syamer Kutty Abba. Safawi Rasid scored the winning goal in the 73rd minute, converting a penalty after Arif Aiman was brought down by Matthew Baldisimo.

In the earlier match, Lebanon defeated Tajikistan 1-0 thanks to Jihad Ayoub’s powerful header from a Rabih Ataya corner in the 13th minute.

On Sunday, Tajikistan will face the Philippines for third place, followed by the final between Malaysia and Lebanon.