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| Romel Morales scored a dramatic equaliser in the 15th minute of injury-time to earn Malaysia a monumental 3-3 draw with South Korea to ensure they would be departing from the 2023 AFC Asian Cup with their heads held high. HECTOR RETAMAL/AFP via Getty Images |
They were already eliminated from the 2023 AFC Asian Cup ahead of Thursday's final set of Group E fixtures, so there was little for Malaysia to play for put pride.
But they certainly made sure they would be leaving the tournament with their heads held high after a stirring display -- which culminated with an equaliser in the 15th minute of injury-time -- saw them hold powerhouses South Korea to a thrilling 3-3 draw.
Even with their fate already secured ahead of kickoff, Malaysia still had the power to influence the destiny of others.
They did just that as the draw meant that South Korea would finish second in Group E behind Bahrain, although the result might still sit well with the former given they have now avoided a heavyweight clash with Japan in the round of 16.
For Malaysia, they will at least know that -- with this result alone -- they have given an excellent account of themselves on their return to the continent's biggest stage for the first time since 2007.
