Pakistan end M’sia’s unbeaten run in Asian Champions Trophy
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s unbeaten run in the 2018 Asian Champions Trophy came to an end after losing 0-1 to Pakistan in their final preliminary match at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Muscat, Oman on Thursday (Friday in Malaysia).
The result did not affect Malaysia’s chances, as they have already qualify for the semi-finals after finishing third behind Pakistan and India, following three wins, one draw and one defeat in the preliminary matches.
Both teams will meet again in the semi-finals on Saturday.
Malaysia’s best chance came in the ninth minute but Muhammad Marhan Abdul Jalil’s shot hit straight into the body of Pakistan goalkeeper, Imran Butt and the scoreless result remained until the end of the first half.
After the restart, both teams stepped up their tempo to find a breakthrough but it was Pakistan who took the lead in the 54th minute when Muhammad Irfan Jr smashed the ball into the net after receiving a pass from Ajaz Ahmad and the scoreline remained until the match ended.
National men’s hockey squad head coach, Roelant Oltmans was disappointed with the result but is confident his charges would be back on the winning track when facing Pakistan in the last four match on Saturday.
“I believe we will see a match on a different pace and I’m convinced we will score goals in the upcoming match.
For the record, Malaysia won three early matches, defeating Japan 3-0, Oman (3-1) and South Korea (4-2) but drew 0-0 with reigning Asian champions, India. - Bernama