Japan-Malaysia tie will be closely matched, says Joo-bong

Splendid show: Japan’s scratch pair Yuta Watanabe (left) hits a return behind teammate Takuro Hoki against England’s Ben Lane-Sean Vendy. — AFP

THE Group D tie between Japan and Malaysia will be an evenly contested one, says former legend Park Joo-bong.

Japan and Malaysia have won their ties against England and United States to confirm their tickets for the quarter-finals but the stage is now set for both sides to battle it out to become the group champions.

“The real battle for both sides starts tomorrow (today),” said Joo-bong, Japan’s head coach.

“There is an even chance for both. We want to be No. 1 in the group to avoid teams like China, Denmark and Indonesia in the quarter-finals.

Japan have been always one step ahead of Malaysia since beating them in the final of the 2014 edition in New Delhi.

“This time, Japan are not at their best. Kento Momota is not in good form compared to Lee Zii Jia, who won the Asian title recently,” admitted Joo-bong.

“Kanta Tsuneyama also suffered a wrist injury, that’s why he did not compete in the German Open and the All-England but he is good now and able to play.

“We have had a short time of preparation but the players are motivated,” added Joo-bong.

Yesterday, Japan fielded their two-time world champion Momota in the tie against England but he had to stave off a strong challenge from Toby Penty before winning 21-18, 21-11 in 40 minutes.

The French Open champion Tsuneyama also struggled as he dropped one game before defeating Johnnie Torjussen 13-21, 21-12, 21-9 in 56 minutes.