SOJC26: Malaysia Beat China but Must Defeat Japan to Reach the Final

Malaysia collected three vital points with a win over China (3-0) at the Sultan of Johor Cup (SoJC) 2026 Edition, but head coach Nor Saiful Zaini admits the team must sharpen its finishing before a decisive meeting with Japan.

Malaysia scored three goals, though the head coach felt the side could have won by a bigger margin.

"Getting the three points is what matters. Our game was at least alright, but we missed a lot of chances," he said.

Finishing problems date back to the Asia Cup

He said the finishing woes are not new and were already evident at the Asia Cup. The team is trying to develop a more attacking style of play but is still failing to convert chances into goals.

"This is what we need to look at again. The problem actually already happened at the Asia Cup," he said.

Goal difference a factor

Under the tournament format, winning alone is not enough, as goal difference also counts. Japan have already won by eight goals, while China and Canada have conceded heavily.

"If we draw or lose to Japan, we won't make the final. We have to win," he said, stressing that anything less would leave Malaysia behind on goal difference.

Japan more mature

He described Japan as a more mature and better-organised side than at the Asia Cup, with a refreshed squad.

Malaysia, he said, must play smart, keep their shape, protect the defensive spaces to limit Japan's chances, and get more players into the opposition box.

"We have to win this match. Every player must understand that if we want to reach the final, we must beat Japan," he said.