KUALA LUMPUR: The national men’s hockey squad confirmed their progress to the semi-finals of the World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign after defeating China 5-4 in the final Group B match in Ismailia, Egypt, on Wednesday.
The victory saw Malaysia finish the group as runners-up behind group champions, Pakistan, who had earlier defeated Austria 4-2.
Head coach Sarjit Singh’s men started the match brilliantly when Mohd Fitri Saari opened the score as early as the fifth minute through a penalty corner.
China, however, equalised a minute later through Wang Yaqi’s field goal before Zhao Yulai put his team ahead through a penalty stroke in the 16th minute.
Nik Muhammad Aiman Nik Rozemi then equalised 2-2 for Malaysia when he scored with two minutes remaining in the second quarter of the match.
Continuing in the second half, the Speedy Tigers doubled their lead with three more goals each by Faiz Helmi Jali in the 36th minute, Mohd Fitri (43’) and Faizal Saari (47’).
China fought back with two late goals from Zhao Yulai and Chen Benhai, but they were not enough to deny Malaysia’s victory.
Malaysia will face England at 12:45 midnight Saturday (Malaysian time) in the semi-finals.
The top three teams from this qualifying campaign will get automatic slots to the 2026 World Cup. – BERNAMA
