Malaysia Leads World Cup 2026 Qualifiers Group D After Beating Taiwan
Harimau Malaya currently sits at the top of the group with six points.
Harimau Malaysia has grabbed its second consecutive World Cup 2026 Qualifiers win after beating Taiwan 1-0
The Malaysian football team edged Taiwan in their Group D match on 21 November at the Taipei Municipal Stadium courtesy of a goal by striker Darren Lok.
Lok, who came on to replace Paulo Josue in the 62nd minute, seized an opportunity amidst a goalmouth scramble, finding the net in the 72nd minute.
Malaysia now sits at the top of Group D with six points
This win halted Malaysia's previous defeats at the Taipei Municipal Stadium, where they had struggled against Taiwan.
Despite dominating the game, Malaysia struggled to convert its chances in the first half. Even after halftime, resilient defending by Taiwan thwarted Malaysia's attempts.
However, Darren's fifth goal in 23 appearances turned the tide in Malaysia's favour, leaving Taiwan unable to counter effectively.
With two wins in two matches, Malaysia will face second-placed Oman on 21 March 2024.
Image via EPA Via the New Straits Times
Here's how the World Cup 2026 Qualifiers work
Malaysia is currently in the Round 2 World Cup 2026 Qualifiers group stage and needs to either finish first or second in order to qualify for the third round. This current group stage has 36 nations vying for the 18 spots in Round 3.
Round 3 will see the remaining 18 nations split into three groups of six. The top two winners of the groups will be assured of a spot at World Cup 2026.
Six nations that finish third and fourth respectively in their groups will enter Round 4. They will be split into two groups of three with the winners of these groups qualifying for World Cup 2026.
Nations that finished as runners-up in Round 4 will enter Round 5, a two-legged contest. The winner will advance to the FIFA Play-Off Tournament.
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