Singapore ousts Malaysia in World Cup Qualifiers

By Abraham Rajadurai

Singapore ousts neighbours Malaysia in the second round of the Asian World Cup Qualifiers after a 1-1 draw in Kuala Lumpur.

The Tigers were kept at bay in the first half and looked to be a shadow of the Southeast Asian champions that clinched the Suzuki Cup.

Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, the Malaysian custodian was key in keeping the Malaysian side in the game as the Singapore strikers spurned gilt-edged chances.

The 34th minute of the game saw a freekick delayed as Malaysian fans shined green laser pointers into the eyes of Singapore goalkeeper, Izwan Mahbud.

The freekick came to naught as it was cleared by the Singapore back four.

The home side roared to life in the second half and went ahead in the 58th minute when Safee Sali found the back of the net.

The Lions had other ideas and clawed their way back through Shi Jiayi, who slammed home the equaliser on the 73rd minute.

The drama was not over as Ahmad Fakri Saarani, Malaysia's substitute, picked up two yellow cards in the dying minutes of the game to earn himself a sending off.

The Lions walked off as winners to the next round with a 6-4 aggregate.

Singapore ousts Malaysia Click on thumbnail to view (Photos: AFP, Reuters, Internet)