‘DO NOT FEAR DENMARK’

Misbun urges Malaysia to take the game to them

NATIONAL men’s singles coach Misbun Sidek has urged his shuttlers to show no fear when they face Denmark in their final Group D tie today.

Yesterday, Malaysia, as expected, thrashed Algeria 5-0 for their second straight win to book their quarterfinal spot.

On paper, Denmark, boasting the likes of reigning world champion and World No 1 Viktor Axelsen, Anders Antonsen, Hans-Kristian Solberg Vittinghus and Jan Jorgensen in the singles, are the favourites to top the group.

Misbun, however, does not want his shuttlers to show any fear, but instead take them on bravely.

“Ideally, we want all three points in the singles against Denmark, but we must be wary. They are the defending champions. The confidence level will not be the same as they have won the Cup before,” said Misbun, who didn’t want to reveal too much on the possible lineup.

However, World No 7 Lee Chong Wei is certain to play in the first singles against Axelsen today.

On how important is it to win the first match, Misbun said: “Very important. Winning the first point will set the tone for the remainder of the tie.

“I urge the players to challenge them (Danish shuttlers). Challenge them to a one-on-one, and I don’t mean a fight, but do not fear them.

“Axelsen has just returned from an injury, so I am sure he has his doubts when going up against Chong Wei. We have to capitalise on that,” he added.

Chong Wei’s last win over Axelsen was at the 2016 Thomas Cup in Kunshan with the Dane winning the last three meetings.

The other singles matches could see Lee Zii Jia play Antonsen with Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin expected to be given the nod to face Vittinghus or Jorgensen.

I urge the players to challenge them (Danish shuttlers).

National men’s singles coach