SoJC2026: Malaysia Beat Japan 4-2 in Comeback Win; Coach warns ahead of Pakistan

Malaysia came from behind to beat Japan 4-2 at the Sultan of Johor Cup 2026. The head coach Nor Saiful Zaini Nasirrudin praised his players’ belief but warned them not to relax before facing Pakistan the next day.

Japan scored first, and Malaysia levelled before Japan went 2-1 ahead. Malaysia then took control to score the goals that won the match. The coach said his side had created many chances, especially in the first and second quarters, but struggled to finish them.

“Credit to Japan, who played well. But in the first and second quarters we had a lot of chances and couldn’t convert them. We scored one and then equalised, and even when Japan went 2-1 up, we still had chances,” he said.

He said the match was a valuable lesson for his players, who now trust that they can score when chances come.

“I think this is the best lesson for them. They now believe that if they get the chances, they can score. I find that very positive, and the spirit they showed was good too,” he said.

Malaysia have little time to rest, as they face Pakistan the following day. The coach said tiredness will be a factor and the players must learn to play through it.

“We can’t be complacent, because tomorrow we play Pakistan. The players will be a little tired, and we have to learn how to play in that condition,” he said.

He described Pakistan as one of the best teams in the tournament and said the match would not be easy. He added that some changes to the lineup are likely.