SYLHET, Feb 5 (UNB): Favourite Malaysian Under-23 team reached the final of the six-nation Bangabandhu Gold Cup International Football Tournament eliminating Singapore Under-23 side by a solitary goal in the first semifinal at the Sylhet District Stadium Thursday.
Malaysia will play the final Sunday (Feb 8) at 5:00 pm at the Bangabandhu National Stadium (BNS) in Dhaka against the winners of Thailand and Bangladesh who will meet in the 2nd semifinal today (Friday) at the BNS.
Malaysia smartly reached the semifinal as the Group A champions with all-win record beating hosts Bangladesh 1-0 and Sri Lanka 2-0 while Singapore managed a semifinal berth by virtue of better goal difference following a goalless draw with Bahrain and losing 2-3 to Thailand.
In the day's first semis, striker Sathasivam Kumaahran scored the match-winner for Malaysia in the 50th minute after beating opponent goalkeeper Mohamed Rudy, off a through pass from Muhammad Syazwan (1-0).
Earlier, in the 14th minute, Singapore goalkeeper Mohamed Rudy saved his castle brilliantly by punching away an attempt of Malaysia's Muhamad Faizat, off an Azawari corner and later Kumaahran got the ball again but his rebound shot travelled over the cross bar.
Four minutes after the lemon break, Adam Nor of Malaysia created a golden opportunity for Muhammad Syazwan who sent the ball wide from vintage position.
Singapore Emmran bin Mazlan spoiled a good chance in the 57th minute as he failed to connect a ball from outside the six-yard box.
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