BHUBANESWAR: Malaysia played like novices while Pakistan were no better in their World Cup clash on Wednesday.
As a result, both teams are now in deep trouble in Group D after a 1-1 draw.
Now the Malaysian Tigers must beat Germany on Sunday to qualify for the next round.
That’s a real uphill task for Malaysia, considering that Germany outplayed the Netherlands 4-1. And the Netherlands themselves had hammered Malaysia 7-0 in an earlier group amtch.
If Roelant Oltmans’ men manage a draw against the mighty Germans, they must hope the Netherlands beat Pakistan by six goals for them to progress.
This came about after Malaysia lost by seven goals to the Netherlands, while Pakistan were edged 1-0 by Germany in their opening matches.
When asked about the Malaysia-Pakistan match, Oltmans said: “Why... didn't you watch the match?"
When prodded further, the Dutchman said: “Destiny is out of our hands. We are in a difficult situation. We need to win against Germany to continue playing in the World Cup.
“But nothing has changed, the plan is still to play in the crossovers, and if that means we have to beat Germany, so be it," he added.
That is easier said than done, as the Germans have traditionally started tournaments on a slow note, but pick up steam along the way.
“Yes, I was a little disappointed when the fixtures came out and we did not draw Germany in our first match but the Netherlands instead. The Germans are traditionally slow starters who build and become stronger with every match.
"So, they will be at their best against us," said Oltmans.
Pakistan were lucky to lose only by a goal, as Germany were still settling down, but the Dutch were in full flow against Malaysia with a magnificent 7 show.
“We may be in a worse situation than Pakistan, but there are still matches to be played. There is always a chance for a surprise,” he said.
“We still want to play the crossovers for a chance to make the quarter-finals, that’s been our target.”