AFC Asian Cup Australia 2015: Qatar 2-0 Malaysia

Doha, February 06 (QNA) - Two second-half goals secured Qatar a 2-0 win over Malaysia in their opening encounter in Group D of the AFC Asian Cup Australia 2015 qualifying campaign at Al Sadd Stadium on Wednesday. Khalfan Ibrahim's deflected free kick in the 55th minute gave the 2011 tournament hosts the lead and, with three minutes of added time played at the end of the game, Yusuf Ahmed doubled Qatar's margin of victory. After an even opening 45 minutes Qatar started to take control of proceedings in the second half and the home side took the lead ten minutes after the interval Former AFC Player of the Year Khalfan Ibrahim stepped up to take the free kick and his effort from 30 yards out was deflected off the Malaysian defensive wall, giving Khairul Fahmi no chance. Sebastian Soria created a fine goal scoring opportunity for himself nine minutes later, tormenting the Malaysian defence before shooting wide while Ibrahim hit the post with regular time having all but run out. With the Malaysians pushing forward looking for a late equaliser, the Qataris put the result beyond doubt in the 93rd minute when substitute Maged Mohammad deceived Fahmi before setting up Ahmed, who put the ball into the empty net.(QNA)