KUALA LUMPUR: The national men’s junior hockey squad suffered their first defeat in the Junior Asia Cup after losing 2-5 to Pakistan in Hulunbuir City, China, yesterday.
In their third Pool B match at the Moqi Training Base, the Young Tigers took the lead in the ninth minute through Mohd Safwan Salihe’s penalty stroke.
Pakistan, however, fought back with five goals through Nadeem Khan (32nd minute), Rana Abdul Rana Sami (36), Waleed Rana (39, 40) and Hamza Ali (41).
Malaysia’s second goal was scored by G. Dheeressh in the 54th minute.
The result means Pakistan continue to lead Pool B with nine points, while Malaysia remain second with six points, followed by China, who also have six points.
Bangladesh and Kazakhstan have yet to earn any points.
Malaysia will determine their fate in their final group match against China today, with a win crucial to strengthening their position for a place in the semi-finals.
The Young Tigers were crowned Junior Asia Cup champions in 2012 and finished fourth in the last two editions in 2023 and 2024. — Bernama
