Malaysia suffered a heavy 1-4 defeat in their opening match of the Asian tournament.

The Malaysian futsal squad was defeated 1-4 by Iran on the opening day of the 2026 U23 Asian Championship finals.

On the opening day of Group D, the 2026 Asian Futsal Championship finals, the Malaysian team was soundly beaten 1-4 by Iran.

Malaysia started well by applying early pressure, forcing goalkeeper Bagher Mohammadi to make two saves from Awalluddin Nawi’s shots. However, it was Iran who scored first in the opening minute.

A mistake in coordination between goalkeeper Syaifuddin Syukri and Saad Sani cost Malaysia, allowing Mohammadhossein Derakhshani to easily score for Iran. By the 5th minute, Mohammadi again showed his skill by rushing out to block a dangerous one-on-one chance from Firdaus Ambiah.

After the break, Iran maintained dominance. Malaysia mostly defended and rarely launched counterattacks, which were ineffective. In the 25th minute, from a corner kick, Salar Aghapour assisted Behrooz Azimi who scored a precise low shot to make it 2-0.

Earlier, goalkeeper Syaifuddin had made several crucial saves for Malaysia, blocking a shot from Aghapour at the 10th minute and a volley from the same player at the 18th. Nevertheless, Iran scored a third goal just before halftime when Hossein Tayebi capitalized on an opponent’s error to strike from outside the box.

In the second half, Iran continued to control the game completely and scored a fourth goal in the 28th minute by Moslem Oladghobad. Malaysia managed a consolation goal late in the match thanks to Awalluddin’s effort, ultimately accepting defeat against the superior reigning champions.

In the next round, the Malaysian futsal team will face another challenge against Afghanistan, who recently defeated Saudi Arabia 3-0.