Rajagobal praises Harimau Malaya despite losing to Barcelona FC

Harimau Malaya chief coach Datuk K. Rajagobal praised the performance of his squad in the 1-3 defeat to Spanish football club Barcelona FC in a friendly match at Shah Alam Stadium here Saturday night.

He said the national squad showed an improved game and had learnt from the mistakes made in earlier friendly matches, especially during the visit to Japan recently.

"This is evident from the superb goal in the 40th minute by Amri Yahyah," he told reporters moments after the match ended.

The three Barcelona goals were scored by Cesc Fabregas in the 34th minute, Neymar (42nd minute) and Gerard Pique (72nd minute).

Rajagobal's view was also shared by national squad manager Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal who elatedly said he was pleased with the Malaysian team's play despite facing the best football team in the world.

Subahan said the player of the match should have been awarded to Amri and not Pique for the national striker's amazing performance.

Meanwhile Amri was just as excited for having scored the marvelous goal for Harimau Malaya.

"I am happy to pull one goal back for the national squad. Despite losing the game, I am proud of the commitment and seriousness showed by my teammates tonight," said the Selangor midfielder.