Bahrain and Malaysia will clash in Group E of the 2023 AFC Asian Cup on Saturday, with both teams looking to bounce back from their losses on the first day of the tournament.
Speaking of Bahrain, the Reds lost 3-1 to South Korea, one of the favorites to win the tournament. Taegeuk Warriors took the lead in the 38th minute with a goal from Hwang In-beom, and Abdullah Al Hasash scored an equalizing goal for Pearl Divers early in the second half.
Although Bahrain was at a disadvantage, Lee Kang-in scored two goals immediately after, pushing South Korea into a corner. It’s time for head coach Juan Antonio Pizzi to go back to the drawing board, as another defeat at the weekend could end their promotion hopes.
The same goes for Malaysia, who lost 4-0 to a ruthless Jordan in their opening group stage match on Monday. Mahmoud Al-Mardi put Chibalras Ones ahead in the 12th minute, before Musa Al Ta’amari doubled their lead six minutes later by scoring from the penalty spot.
Al Mardi made it 3-0 before half-time, but Al Ta’amari added his fourth goal in the 85th minute and Malayan Tigers were sent out of bounds by some fine work from Jordan.
Given their staggering goal difference, Malaysia currently sit at the bottom of Group E, with Bahrain just a hair above them. Both teams are hoping to get a win here and liven up the Asia Cup tournament.
Bahrain vs Malaysia matchup and important numbers
- The two teams have met 12 times so far, with Bahrain winning against Malaysia seven times and losing only twice.
- Malaysia defeated Bahrain in the first two meetings. They won 3-1 in the Presidents Cup in September 1977, and then won 2-1 in the same Cup exactly one year later.
- Bahrain are on a three-game winning streak against Malaysia and have scored in their last four games against Malayan Tigers.
- Malaysia have conceded six goals in their last two international matches.
- Bahrain have lost their last four international matches, conceding 10 goals and scoring just once (against South Korea in the Asian Cup opener).
Bahrain vs Malaysia Prediction
Bahrain are currently in terrible form with four international defeats, while Malaysia looked absolutely vulnerable against Jordan in their first cup match.
We expect this match to end in a draw as both teams are currently struggling.
prediction: Bahrain 1-1 Malaysia
Bahrain vs Malaysia betting tips
Hint 1: Result: draw
Tip 2 – Aim for more than/less than 2.5: Less than 2.5
Tip 3 – Both teams score: Yes
quick links
Other works by Sportskeeda