Latest news with #Azurin
The Star
30-06-2025
- Sport
- The Star
Strong start as Tigress edge Palestine at Asian Cup qualifiers
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian women's football team made a roaring start to their 2026 Asian Cup qualifying campaign, edging Palestine 1-0 in a gritty Group H opener at the Pamir Central Stadium in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on Sunday. Farahiyah Ridzuan emerged the match-winner with a clinical strike in the 85th minute but it was goalkeeper Nurul Azurin Mazlan who stood tall as Malaysia's rock at the back. Azurin, who plays for Kosovo club KFF Vllaznia, delivered a standout performance between the posts, pulling off a crucial penalty save in the 25th minute and winning multiple one-on-one battles to keep the Malaysians in the game. Top form: Malaysian Tigress celebrating after beating Palestine during the Asian Cup qualifying Group H opener in Tajikistan. — FAM Her commanding presence ensured the Malaysian Tigress had a fighting chance and Farahiyah seized the moment late on to seal all three points. 'This is our first three points in the qualifiers and it's a huge boost,' said Azurin. 'We didn't start well, the first half was shaky but in the second half, we found our rhythm. Everyone gave 100%, and the result went our way.' Coach Joel Cornelli praised the team's resilience and defensive structure, particularly against a Palestine side that belied their lower world ranking with a spirited display. In the world rankings, Malaysia are ranked world No. 102 while Palestine are No. 134. 'It was a tough match. Palestine may be ranked below us but they've pushed strong teams before,' said the Brazilian tactician. 'I'm pleased with how we organised ourselves defensively and closed out the match. 'We pressed high and that sometimes leaves gaps but it's something we'll work on ahead of the next game.' Malaysia will now shift their focus to hosts Tajikistan while Palestine face a stern test against tournament favourites North Korea. Both matches are scheduled for tomorrow.
The Star
22-05-2025
- Sport
- The Star
Azurin intends to elevate woman football to a new level
PETALING JAYA: National women's football team goalkeeper Nur Azurin Mazlan (pic) has returned home with renewed zeal after a successful five-month stint in the European league. The 25-year-old shot-stopper had played for KFF Vllaznia in the Albanian women's league (Kategoria Superiore Femra) since January and went on to help them win the league. Azurin said the valuable experience had made her a better player and person. 'The game intensity was different. It was fast, aggressive, and tactical,' said Azurin. 'You really see the gap between UEFA Champions League-level women teams and where we stand in Malaysia. 'In fact, one of the girls asked me – where is Malaysia? I was shocked. 'But I also realised that this is our reality – we're a small footballing nation although we have a rich background, passionate fans, and talented players. 'I hope what I've learnt from Albania can help our national team. There were a lot of new experiences and challenges that I hope to share with my teammates,' she said. Azurin is one of the key figures in the Malaysian Tigress squad. She and her teammates have started their training camp under new coach Joel Cornelli from Brazil. They are scheduled to play in international friendlies against Bhutan and Hong Kong before heading to Dushanbe, Tajikistan, for the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers from June 23-July 5. 'Honestly, most of the players are adapting. It's a new environment. But that's part of the process – we have to go through the changes if we want to grow,' said Azurin. 'The new coach has a strong background, and we're excited to learn new systems and tactics. Get new perspectives.' Having broken barriers overseas, Azurin now finds herself in a new kind of leadership role. She's not just a goalkeeper anymore – she's an example of what's possible and is determined to pass that belief on to the next generation.
