KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia became the first team to check into the semi-finals of the Asian Champions Trophy in Kuantan when they beat Japan 7-2 today.
With a clean record after three matches where they beat Pakistan 4-2, China 5-1 and Japan 7-2, Malaysia top the table on nine points with matches against India and South Korea in hand.
Aiman Nik Rozemi cracked open the Japan goalmouth in the 23rd minute, while the other goals were scored by Rashid Baharom (27th), Nabil Fiqri (33rd), Faizal Shaari (37th, 59th), Firhan Ashaari (44th) and Fitri Shaari (58th).
The Japan goals were was scored by Kenji Kitazato (59th) and Kentaro Fukuda (60th).
Malaysian coach Stephen van Huizen was elated with the victory and is looking forward to the next two matches.
“We have had a very good tournament so far and have achieved out first target which is to play in the semi-finals. Now we need to keep the momentum going in the next two matches against India (Wednesday) and South Korea (Thursday),” said van Huizen.
RESULTS: India 3 Pakistan 2, Malaysia 7 Japan 2.
MONDAY: South Korea v China (6.30pm).
TUESDAY: Pakistan v Japan (6.30pm), India v China (8.30pm).
Note: All matches at the Kuantan Hockey Stadium.