MALAYSIA vs SOUTH KOREA (Latest world ranking in the brackets)
FIRST SINGLES
Leong Jun Hao (25) vs Yoo Tae-bin (66)
It will be a first-ever meeting between both players on the international stage. The 22-year-old Tae-bin has been picked ahead of the more experienced Jeon Hyeok-jin, signalling South Korea’s intent to groom him as their next leading singles player.
He impressed during the Asian Team Championships and will be eager to claim a notable scalp. Jun Hao, however, holds the edge in experience and big-match exposure, and should have enough to keep the Korean at bay if he stays composed.
SECOND SINGLES
Justin Hoh (44) vs Choi Ji-hoon (85)
This match too could go either way as the 22-year-old Justin and Ji-hoon have yet to meet. Justin brings valuable Thomas Cup experience from the previous edition, which could prove crucial in handling the pressure.
Ji-hoon, 26, despite his lower ranking, has shown he can stretch higher-ranked opponents and is capable of springing a surprise. His recent withdrawal after reaching the China Masters quarter-finals, however, leaves a slight question mark over his condition.
THIRD SINGLES
Lee Zii Jia (80) vs Park Sang-yong (90)
If the tie arrives to this stage, it still could be anyone’s game. Zii Jia’s return from injury means he may not be at full sharpness, making this a potentially tricky assignment.
The 24-year-old Sang-yong may lack standout wins, but he is capable of grinding out points and cannot be underestimated. South Korea are unlikely to turn to reserve and world No. 173 Cho hyeon-woo unless absolutely necessary.
FIRTS DOUBLES
Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik (2) vs Kim Won-ho-Seo Seung-jae (1)
Former world champions Aaron-Wooi Yik will need to be at their very best to halt the red-hot run of reigning world champions Kim Won-ho-Seo Seung-jae. The Koreans have been in formidable form this season and hold the upper hand in their head-to-head record (3-1).
The Malaysians, though, are not far off in standard. If they can tighten their finishing and seize key moments, an upset is within reach but the Koreans will be relentless in setting the tone for the tie.
SECOND DOUBLES
Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun (6) or Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani (7) vs Jin Yong-Ki Dong-ju (291)
The second doubles could make or break this tie. Malaysia are expected to stick with their established pairs, while South Korea may shuffle combinations to find the most effective partnership. Though some of the Korean pairings carry modest rankings, their individual quality makes them dangerous.
Under the guidance of master tactician Park Joo-bong, they remain a threat in doubles. Jin Yong and Dong-ju are ranked 291 but they have played with so many different partners in recent times and that makes them versatile.
They can also use Song Hyun-cho or Lee Jong-min.
