Young Lions head coach Firdaus apologises to fans, praises team’s effort after Timor-Leste SEA Games loss

Firdaus’ men led through Amir Syafiz, but were eventually sunk by a first-half double by Vabio Canavaro plus an Anizo Correia strike. 

After the blast of the full-time whistle, some of the Young Lions collapsed to the ground, while others were in tears.

“We started with a goal and we didn’t build on it,” said Firdaus, who pointed out that his side conceded three “very easy goals”.

“It became very difficult for us in the second half, we had to take more risks. We had some very good chances which we should have converted, we didn’t take it. But all in all, I’m very happy with the effort of the players. It’s all about (recuperating) for the next game.”

The next game for the Young Lions would be a tough one. On Dec 11, they face hosts Thailand, which have already thrashed Timor-Leste 6-1 in their opening game on Wednesday.

The three countries were drawn in Group A following Cambodia’s withdrawal from the competition.