By format, Nepal were scheduled to host Malaysia in Kathmandu, but because of the deterioration of Dasarath Stadium and instability at home, Nepal used Malaysia’s Bukit Jalil Stadium as their designated "home" ground, the same solution they adopted when they used Thong Nhat Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City to host Vietnam in September.
Malaysia face an off-field crisis after FIFA accused them of falsifying documents to naturalize seven players who featured in their 4–0 win over Vietnam in June. With possible sanctions pending at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), Malaysia were determined to make the most of their home-ground advantage and secure three points to bolster their chances of qualifying for the 2027 finals.
Malaysia (R) in their 1-0 victory over Nepal at the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers in Bukit Jalil Stadium on Nov. 18, 2025. Photo by FAM
Against a Nepal side that defended in large numbers, Malaysia struggled to find clear openings for long stretches. Most of their early threats came from crosses and high balls into the box, but Nepal’s goalkeeper Chamjong produced several outstanding saves to deny header attempts.
Already eliminated from the group, Nepal treated the match largely as a formality and showed little attacking intent. During the entire game they only once penetrated Malaysia’s penalty area and won a corner; otherwise the South Asian side failed to register a shot on target.
After a goalless first half, Malaysia intensified their pressure in the second half and were rewarded in the 56th minute. A through pass cut out the Nepal defense, allowing striker Faisal Halim to break free, face the goalkeeper and slot home the opener. Malaysia created additional chances but could not add to the score.
Late drama came in stoppage time. From a corner in the 90th minute, Nepal’s Limbu pulled down a Malaysian striker and was booked; the corner was retaken. Seconds later he committed a second deliberate pull-down and received a second yellow card, after which the referee awarded Malaysia a penalty.
From the spot, striker Josue struck the ball over the bar, missing the chance to extend the lead. Nonetheless, the 1–0 victory left Malaysia on a perfect 15 points from five matches in Group F.
Vietnam currently have nine points from four matches. For Vietnam to topple Malaysia and win Group F, they must first beat Laos on Nov. 19 and then defeat Malaysia by at least five goals in the final group game on March 31, 2026.
