No Viktor, no victory?
PETALING JAYA: Denmark will feel the void left by Viktor Axelsen when their Thomas Cup campaign begins on Thursday in Horsens.
The lanky and domineering Axelsen was the cornerstone of Denmark’s historic Thomas Cup triumph in 2016, and without him, badminton legend Peter Gade (pic) believes even progressing from the group stage will be a stern challenge.
With Axelsen having retired last week after a series of injuries, the hosts will lean heavily on world No. 3 Anders Antonsen, Rasmus Gemke, Magnus Johannesen and Ditley Jaeger Holm.
Antonsen’s promotion to the top singles spot, however, exposes some vulnerability in the second and third singles.
Drawn in a tough Group C alongside South Korea, Taiwan and Sweden, Denmark face what many consider the “group of death”.
Gade, who led Denmark’s singles charge before Axelsen’s era, believes the road to the top will be fraught with challenges for the hosts.
“Without Viktor, the team are quite fragile, especially at the second and third singles,” said Gade.
“Malaysia look good to come out of their group (Japan, England, Finland), but it’s not the same for Denmark. They must beat two strong teams – South Korea and Taiwan – to reach the last eight.
Taiwan, based on recent form, are probably the top team in the group.
Axelsen, meanwhile, pointed to Denmark’s doubles depth as the positive, with world No. 1 mixed doubles player Mathias Christiansen and another doubles player Rasmus Kjaer capable of forming new combinations.
“The inclusion of Mathias and Rasmus, alongside the top pairs, suggests Denmark could experiment with fresh partnerships,” he said.
“The coaches are likely mixing things up in training to find the right combinations to outsmart their opponents.”
Gade added that Denmark’s biggest advantage could be home support.
“They must make full use of playing in their own backyard,” he said.
“Hopefully, the coaches can ease the pressure and allow the team to come from behind and make an impact.”
Looking ahead, Gade feels Malaysia would hold the edge should the two sides meet in the knockout stage, especially with Lee Zii Jia back in the fold.
“Malaysia have the upper hand on paper. They are stronger in the doubles and will likely target at least one point in the singles,” he said.
“I’m not sure what level Zii Jia is at now, but we know what he is capable of.
“If he gets close to his best, Malaysia’s chances in the third singles will improve.”
Gade however, is still pining hopes on Denmark to bring cheer at home.
“But it’s not impossible for Denmark. The second and third singles can go either way and it all depends on strategy,” he said.
“Both teams (Malaysia and Denmark) have experienced coaches, and everyone will be pushing for a strong showing.”
