Fan Chaos Halts Malaysia-Saudi Arabia World Cup Qualifier
The 2018 World Cup qualifier between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia at the Shah Alam Stadium in Selangor was abandoned just minutes from full time after crowd trouble forced the referee to halt the match.
With only three minutes remaining, and Saudi Arabia leading 2-1, fans invaded the pitch, prompting chaotic scenes and forcing players and officials to flee to the dressing rooms. Smoke from flares and fireworks filled the air as security personnel struggled to restore order.
The Group A fixture in the Asian zone’s second qualifying round had been tense from the outset, but the situation deteriorated quickly as Malaysia’s hopes of a comeback faded. The referee was left with no option but to call off the match.
At the time of the stoppage, Saudi Arabia were in control, having overturned an early Malaysian lead. It remains unclear whether FIFA will uphold the result or order a replay or disciplinary sanctions.
Elsewhere in Group A, the United Arab Emirates were held to a goalless draw by a resilient Palestine side. Despite dropping points, the UAE stay top of the group standings.
