SELAYANG, Aug 20 — The fighting spirit displayed by Selangor’s women’s football team in defeating Sabah in the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) final should serve as an example for other athletes as the state contingent seeks to add to its gold-medal haul.
State executive councillor for women’s development Anfaal Saari said she was proud to see Osmera Omaro’s charges remain composed, execute their strategy and fight until the final whistle to secure victory.
She said although Selangor led 1-0 at half-time, the players did not rush their play but instead managed their energy wisely before adding another goal in the second half.
“Although they were already leading 1-0 in the first half, they conserved their energy while continuing to hunt for more goals. They then managed to score a second in the second half.
“This is the fighting spirit of our women athletes, and the victory has also put Selangor at the top with 31 gold medals so far, ahead of the other states.
“As hosts, the feeling is extraordinary, and I hope all our women athletes will continue fighting and contributing medals so that Selangor can emerge as the overall champions of this Games,” she told Media Selangor.
Anfaal was speaking after watching the 2026 SUKMA women’s football final at Selayang Municipal Council Stadium last night.
She said the state administration was also committed to empowering women inclusively by providing support and opportunities across various fields, rather than focusing solely on sports.
“We want to empower women inclusively. It is not merely about setting policies, but also making an effort to provide various forms of assistance,” she said.
In the final, about 5,000 home supporters erupted in celebration when striker Tegen Su Yin Butler broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute.
Sabah, whose line-up included several national players, refused to give up and continued to put pressure on Selangor’s defence early in the second half.
Selangor, however, remained composed before Su Yin Butler once again demonstrated her finishing prowess, netting her second goal in the 67th minute to seal the victory.
