BANGKOK: After sweeping the Philippines 3-0, Malaysia now gear up for a tougher semi-final against hosts Thailand in the men’s badminton team event today (Dec 8), with players stressing preparation, adaptability and full focus.
Leong Jun Hao, who delivered Malaysia’s opening point with a steady 21-17, 21-18 win over Jewel Angelo Albo, said he felt more comfortable on court after adjusting to the hall conditions.
Making his second appearance at the Games, Leong acknowledged that taking on hosts Thailand in the semis will be a bigger challenge.
“Tomorrow (Monday) against Thailand, the hosts, we need to be ready to fight. As a team, our teamwork will be important,” he told reporters after the match.
Malaysia’s second point came through the new pairing of Man Wei Chong–Soh Wooi Yik, who eased past Solomon Jr Padiz–Julius Villabrille 21-10, 21-12.
Soh said both he and Man entered the tournament with full readiness despite only officially partnering once prior to the SEA Games.
“We came in 100 per cent prepared. We discussed with Man and didn’t want to overthink — just give our personal best,”
“Man is a good player, so it didn’t affect our gameplay much. We came out strong and hope to continue this rhythm tomorrow.”
Man echoed the same message of readiness, saying their focus is simply on preparing themselves for whoever comes next.
“We don’t think too much about the next opponents. We just focus on what we can control,” he said.
Soh added that representing Malaysia in any pairing is an honour, and delivering the point is the team’s main priority.
“We won’t underestimate Thailand. They are a strong team. It’s a 50-50 game, and we want to give our best.”
Malaysia sealed the tie when Justin Hoh defeated Clarence Villaflor 21-18, 21-19 in the third match to complete the 3-0 sweep.
The semi-final clash against Thailand is scheduled for today.
