Fuel for vengeance
Malaysia get chance to avenge loss to Denmark in 2016
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia are seeking revenge against Denmark after being drawn together with the defending champions, Russia and Algeria in Group D for the Thomas Cup Finals in Bangkok from May 20-27.
Lee Chong Wei and Co will be fired up to beat the Danes, who defeated Malaysia in the semi-finals of the 2016 edition.
It was a favourable draw for Malaysia, who earned their spot in the Finals by virtue of a top-fourfinishat theAsiaTeamChampionships in February, as they avoided all the other top Asian nations in the group stage.
Nine-time winners China are in Group A with India, France and Australia while 2014 winners Japan are placed in a tricky Group C with Taiwan, Germany and Hong Kong.
Reigning runners-up Indonesia also head a tough Group B with South Korea, Canada and hosts Thailand.
“I would say that the draw is quite favourable to us. We’re lucky not to be placed in other groups ... Group B, in particular, looks like the Group of Death,” said Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) president Datuk Seri Norza Zakaria.
“I believe we should make the quarter-finals and that is where the challenge will start for us.
“Realistically, our target would be to at least retain our semi-final finish two years ago. But it would also be great if we can avenge our loss to Denmark in the group stages as well.”
Meanwhile, the Malaysian women were not so lucky in the Uber Cup Finals draw.
They have a mountain to climb after being drawn in Group D with defending champions China, Indonesia and France.
Favourites Japan head Group A with India, Canada and Australia while Thailand are placed in Group B with Taiwan, Germany and Hong Kong.
Group C comprises South Korea, Denmark, Russia and Mauritius.
“It’s definitely a tough group with China and Indonesia. But I believe we can give Indonesia a run for their money if we prepare well,” said Norza.
“I think it’s fair to say that our target would be to beat Indonesia.
“If we can get into the last eight, it’s quite an improvement already.”
In the 2016 edition, Malaysia failed to get out of the group stage. Then, they were drawn with China, Denmark and Spain.