Malaysia’s national hockey team suffered a crushing 4-3 defeat to defending champions New Zealand in their second Pool B match of the FIH Nations Cup 2024/25 at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil this evening — despite holding a commanding three-goal lead.
The loss deals a serious blow to Sarjit Singh’s squad’s hopes of advancing to the semi-finals, forcing them to rely on other results to stay in contention. Malaysia now must secure a big win against Japan and hope New Zealand defeats Pakistan in the final round of group fixtures.
The first quarter ended goalless, although both sides came close. Azrai Aizad Abu Kamal struck the post with the goalkeeper already beaten, while Charlie Morrison’s effort was brilliantly saved by Hafizuddin Othman.
Malaysia finally broke the deadlock in the 18th minute when Akhimullah Anuar Esook calmly slotted home a cross from Azrai Aizad on the right flank.
Buoyed by the opening goal, Malaysia came out firing in the third quarter. Fitri Saari doubled the lead with a precise penalty stroke in the 38th minute, and just a minute later, Azrai Aizad made it 3-0, sending home fans into a frenzy.
However, New Zealand responded with sheer determination, refusing to surrender. In a dramatic three-minute blitz, they stunned Malaysia with three quick goals: Finn Ward scored a field goal in the 44th minute, Simon Yorston followed up with a slick deflection from a penalty play in the 45th, and Sean Findlay completed the comeback with a goal in the 46th.
The collapse rattled the Malaysian side, and New Zealand capitalized. In the 52nd minute, Finn Ward struck again, completing a stunning comeback and sealing all three points for the Kiwis.
Malaysia now faces an uphill battle to stay alive in the tournament. A heavy victory over Japan and a favorable result from New Zealand against Pakistan are their only hopes of making the final four.
Credit Photo : Hokita
