Manchester United’s post-season tour in Asia began on a disappointing note as they fell 1-0 to a spirited Southeast Asian XI in a friendly match held at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur. The Red Devils, still reeling from a dismal Premier League campaign that saw them finish 15th—marking their worst performance since 1974—showed little improvement under the hot and humid conditions of Malaysia.
A crowd of over 72,000 fans witnessed the lackluster display, with many supporters departing before the final whistle and a few expressing their displeasure through boos. Ruben Amorim fielded a strong starting lineup, featuring familiar names such as Harry Maguire, Rasmus Hojlund, Casemiro, Diogo Dalot, Manuel Ugarte, Kobbie Mainoo, and goalkeeper Andre Onana.
Despite the presence of key players, United struggled to gain momentum. Early pressure came from the hosts, with Filipino defender Amani Aguinaldo narrowly missing the target in the 16th minute. Onana was called upon to make a crucial save midway through the first half, drawing cheers from the pro-United crowd.
Kobbie Mainoo offered the first real threat for the visitors, launching a long-range shot that was deflected for a corner. He came close again in the 38th minute, only to see his effort cleared off the line. Captain Bruno Fernandes entered the pitch after the break, trying to inspire a comeback. His half-volley was one of the few highlights in a largely uneventful second half.
The decisive moment came in the 71st minute, when Maung Maung Lwin of Myanmar capitalized on a swift counter-attack. The 29-year-old forward burst past United’s defense and smashed the ball into the top corner past substitute keeper Tom Heaton, handing the Southeast Asian side a memorable victory.
The scoreline could have been worse for Manchester United, but Heaton managed to deny a second goal late in the game. Following the defeat, United will now travel to Hong Kong to face their next opponent in another off-season fixture on Friday.
