KUALA LUMPUR: Teenage sensation Lim You took to social media to thank Malaysian fans and apologise following her team's failure to qualify for next year's AFC Under-17 Women's Asian Cup.
The 14-year-old winger, who captured the nation's attention throughout the campaign, was in tears on the pitch after the Malayan Tigresses lost 4-0 to India in their final Group E qualifier at the Selayang Stadium on Sunday.
The US-based player expressed her appreciation to supporters online after the final whistle.
"Thank you so much to all of the supporters and people who supported us and encouraged us throughout this campaign," Lim You posted on her social media page.
"You guys mean so much to me, and I'm so grateful for each and every single one of you. I'm sorry I wasn't able to give you my best performance last night, and I'm sorry if I let any of you guys down. Thank you."
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh, who was present at the stadium to support the team and comfort Lim You on the pitch, praised the squad's determination against India.
"The 4-0 defeat to India is truly disheartening. I am sure the players themselves felt it the most, and I was there to offer them my support," Yeoh said.
Yeoh said she was pleased to see a multiracial crowd turning up at the stadium to support the young team.
"Thank you to the diverse group of Malaysian supporters who turned up to spur our young players. It was heartwarming to see such a strong crowd in the stadium," she said.
Reassuring the squad that their journey was just starting, Yeoh urged the players to keep their heads high.
"To the Malayan Tigresses, thank you for fighting for Malaysia. Don't lose heart. You are still young and the journey ahead is long. There is a lot to be learned from this experience," Yeoh said.
She said the government remains committed to building a sustainable ecosystem for women's football.
"I hope investment in women's football development, especially at the junior level, can continue to be increased. Keep going, Malayan Tigresses. I believe in all of you!" she said.
Malaysia had entered the final group match following 1-0 and 4-0 wins over Syria and Iraq, but missed out on qualification after Sunday's defeat.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd