Malaysia's super-sub Qaseh sinks Syria

KUALA LUMPUR: Substitute forward Qaseh Riana Dafira Rafiuddin emerged as the hero, striking 10 minutes from time to hand Malaysia a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Syria in their opening Group E match of the Asian Under -17 women's Asian Cup qualifiers at the Selayang Municipal Council Stadium on Monday.

Malaysia, coached by Japanese Takayoshi Ishihara, dominated possession and carved out several opportunities, but were repeatedly thwarted by a resolute Syrian backline led by captain Arin Asaad and goalkeeper Media Housain.

However, Malaysia's patience was rewarded in the 80th minute.

With the home side relentless in their pursuit of a winner, Qaseh, brought on in the second half, timed her run to perfection inside the box, sliding in to nick the ball past Housain and send the home bench into wild celebrations.

The Syrians attempted to mount a late surge in the dying minutes, but the Malaysian defence, anchored by skipper Nur Qistina Mohd Fais and goalkeeper Nurain Qaisara Muhammad Ali, stood firm.