Merdeka Tournament Final - Malaysia 2 Myanmar 0

KUANTAN: The national Under-23 team earned a huge boost ahead of December’s Sea Games when they edged Myanmar 2-0 in the final of the Merdeka Tournament at Darulmakmur Stadium in Kuantan tonight.

It was Malaysia’s 11th title in Asia’s oldest tournament, second for the Under-23 side, since its inception in 1957, courtesy of goals by Rozaimi Abdul Rahman (28th minute) and Junior Eldstal (90th)

The win will surely motivate Malaysia in their quest of a third straight title at the biennial games.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JaA54uDelnM

Malaysia earned the prize purse of US50,000 (RM150,000) while Myanmar received US30,000 (RM90,000).

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, who has been following the progress of the Malaysian team, congratulated them following their Merdeka Tournament triumph.

Najib tweeted: “Tahniah #HarimauMuda sebagai juara #PestabolaMerdeka. Juga @w_zack sebagai MVP dan @MdRozaimi penjaring  terbanyak. Syabas!

Harimau Muda A team with the Merdeka Cup and the mock cheque after defeating Myanmar. NST pix by Luqman Hakim Zubir

Md Rozaimi Ab Rahman scored Malaysia first goal, 29 minute into the game against Myanmar. Pix by Hasriyasyah Sabud       \\

NST