THE Penang women’s football team made a winning start to their 2026 Malaysia Games (Sukma) campaign after edging past Melaka 2-1 in an action-packed opening match at Stadium Kuala Kubu Bharu in Selangor tonight.
The victory gave Penang an early boost in their medal quest, with Nur Anis Alwani Yusnizam and Nur Aufa Airish Hafidzan finding the back of the net, while Melaka’s lone goal came from Nur Zara Ardila.
Head coach Marzizul Yusuf praised his players for showing discipline, determination and resilience to see out the match, despite a slow start.
“The game was a little slow at the beginning. Perhaps this was because it was their first time playing at night, but credit to the players, they managed to stay disciplined and composed.
“More importantly, what we had worked on during training was implemented on the pitch tonight.
“There are still several weaknesses that I have identified and we need to improve on, but Alhamdulillah, I am very proud of what my players showed tonight,” he told Buletin Mutiara after the match.
With tougher challenges against Perak and Pahang awaiting Penang, Marzizul acknowledged that the road ahead would be considerably more demanding.
“Both Perak and Pahang are considered very experienced teams, so the next two matches will definitely be tough. Nevertheless, we will give our best.
“I have reviewed their matches and we will work on correcting the weaknesses we saw tonight so that we can be better prepared for the upcoming fixtures.
“Insya-Allah, we will work on improving the areas that need attention before facing our next opponents,” he said.
Marzizul also highlighted the added responsibility carried by the women’s team this year, following the absence of Penang’s men’s football team from the Sukma competition.
With expectations now resting heavily on the women’s side, he said the team’s primary ambition is to secure at least a medal.
“We know the expectations are there, especially with the men’s team not competing this year. Our target is at least to bring home a medal, and we will fight for it,” he said.
Penang will return to action against Perak on Aug 13 before taking on Pahang on Aug 15 as they continue their pursuit of Sukma glory.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis