Malaysia kicked off their campaign in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 with a commanding 3-0 win over Bangladesh at the Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta. The match showcased Malaysia's offensive prowess, highlighted by a double from Arif Aiman and a goal from the newly naturalized striker, Bergson da Silva.

From the outset, Malaysia asserted control over the game, applying pressure on Bangladesh's defense. Faisal Halim had the first opportunity just four minutes in, firing a shot from outside the box that was saved by goalkeeper Mehedi Hasan Srabon. The Malaysian pressure paid off in the 18th minute when midfielder Nooa Laine delivered a long pass into space behind the Bangladeshi defense, allowing Arif Aiman Hanapi to break through and score, marking his first goal for Malaysia since his previous strike against Laos in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.

As the match progressed, Bangladesh struggled to close the gaps in their defense. Malaysia capitalized on a defensive error in the 37th minute, with Stuart Wilkin setting up Arif Aiman for a second goal, executed with a precise shot into the bottom left corner. Malaysia continued to press for more goals, with Manuel Hidalgo attempting a long-range effort just before halftime, which was again saved by Srabon.

In an effort to turn the tide, Bangladesh made substitutions at the start of the second half, introducing players with international experience, including Hamza Choudhury. However, Malaysia quickly extended their lead in the 52nd minute. Defender La'Vere Corbin-Ong crossed from the left, allowing Bergson to control the ball, evade a defender, and score his debut goal for Malaysia.

With a comfortable lead, coach Tan Cheng Hoe substituted Arif Aiman and Bergson as the match progressed. New players such as Fergus Tierney and Paulo Josue came on, while Nazmi Faiz Mansor, Syahmi Safari, and G Pavithran also made appearances. Malaysia continued to seek a fourth goal, with Tierney hitting the crossbar in the 82nd minute and Nazmi Faiz forcing another save from Srabon.

Bangladesh had a notable chance in the 75th minute when Hamza Choudhury's shot was blocked by goalkeeper Haziq Nadzli. Alongside Bergson, two other players made their debuts for Malaysia: Manuel Hidalgo, who started and had a scoring opportunity, and Brad Tapp, who received a yellow card for a foul.

This victory sets a positive tone for Malaysia as they prepare to face host nation Indonesia on September 28 at the same venue, followed by a match against Singapore on October 1. Bangladesh will also meet Singapore on September 28 before facing Indonesia.