The 2023 Merdeka Tournament was the 42nd edition of the tournament which was organised by the Football Association of Malaysia. The tournament, which featured three participants, took place between 13 and 17 October.
Tajikistan emerged as the champion of the tournament for their first title after beating host Malaysia 2–0 at the final.
Participating nations The teams were announced by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) in March 2023. The draw took place on 8 August 2023. Lebanon later withdrew from the tournament because the 2026 World Cup qualification draw placed them in the same group as Palestine. Tajikistan was then selected to replace Lebanon.
Due to Gaza war, Palestine decided to withdraw three days prior to the tournament.
The following are the FIFA Rankings of the participating national teams, as of 21 September 2023. (97) (withdrew) (101) (withdrew) (102) (110) (134)
Venue All matches were played at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Kuala LumpurBukit Jalil National StadiumCapacity: 87,411
Matches
Match rule 90 minutes. Penalty shoot-out after a draw in 90 minutes. Maximum of five substitutions.
Bracket
Semi-finals
Final
Winners
Goalscorers
References