Singapore beat lackluster Malaysia in Airmarine Cup

Faris Ramli’s superb goal in the 82nd minute was enough to give Singapore a 1-0 victory over Malaysia on Wednesday to reach the Airmarine Cup final.

The Lions will lock horns with Oman in the final this Saturday after the latter trounced Afghanistan 5-0 earlier.

In the match at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil, Nazri Nasir’s team produced an outstanding second-half defensive performance to beat Malaysia in front of 3,341 spectators.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Nazri said he was delighted with the victory and praised his players for showing a fighting spirit to hold the game until the final whistle.

"I think basically I told my players it wouldn't be an easy game, especially playing Malaysia at their home ground. Also, I told the players when you have a chance, you need to remain calm.

"We worked so hard to win as well keep the ball and wait for the right moment. I think that was what happened. The goal, it was a good counter-attack and a good breakthrough," he said.

Meanwhile, Malaysia head coach Tan Cheng Hoe didn’t hide his disappointment over his squad’s performance tonight.

"We started the game slow, and I could see that Singapore had more determination and spirit.

"Of course in the second half we tried to come back and play well, but unfortunately again, another mistake cost us the loss," he said.

Malaysia will play Afghanistan in the 3rd and 4th placing match of the tournament at the same venue on Saturday.