NAGOYA: The national women's squash team advanced to the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games final after defeating hosts Japan 2-0 in the semi-finals at the Nagoya Kinjo Futo Arena on Thursday (Oct 1).
The Malaysian quartet of S. Sivasangari, Aira Azman, Aifa Azman and Rachel Arnold needed only two matches to seal their final berth.
Sivasangari contributed the opening point, coming from behind to defeat world number six Satomi Watanabe 5-11, 11-7, 5-11, 11-6, 11-3.
Aira then sealed Malaysia's victory by beating Akari Midorikawa 11-8, 11-5, 11-3 in straight sets.
Sivasangari said the win was especially meaningful after a fierce challenge in the opening match.
"Obviously happy as a team. Playing Japan today, obviously I started off first, (and it) was tricky.
"Satomi is a very tough opponent, so I am happy I managed to win that and give the first point to the team," she said after the match.
Malaysia will face Hong Kong in the final tomorrow after the latter defeated India 2-1 in the other semi-final.
The clash will be a repeat of the 2022 Hangzhou edition final, where Malaysia emerged champions and Hong Kong took silver.
Sivasangari said the team's goal is to defend the title, though they must manage the pressure and stay focused.
"Of course, that's the goal for us, but I think with that, pressure comes in as well. We're trying to put that away, and try to just focus on how we're going to play on court," she added.
Sivasangari noted that Hong Kong has a solid and well-balanced squad, but Malaysia remains confident in their current form.
Meanwhile, Aira said she was satisfied with her neat performance against Midorikawa and wanted to ensure she remains fresh for the final.
"Quite satisfied with how I played today. Even though it was a bit tricky for Sivasangari to manage to close it 3-0, I believed in her. I tried to finish in three (sets) as well so that I'll be fresh for tomorrow," she said. - Bernama
