Malaysia reignited their campaign at the 2025 FIH Nations Cup with a resounding 4-2 victory over South Africa in the crossover stage, putting aside the disappointment of missing out on a semi-final berth.
Despite defeating Japan 2-1 in their final Group B match, the Speedy Tigers were edged out of the top four due to goal difference. Now, with a fifth-place finish in sight, Sarjit Singh’s men responded in style.
Malaysia looked sharp from the opening whistle at the Bukit Jalil National Hockey Stadium, nearly scoring in the 5th minute when Syed Syafiq Syed Cholan’s fierce shot was heroically cleared off the line by the South African defence.
The breakthrough came in the 15th minute. Syed Syafiq made no mistake from the penalty spot, smashing the ball past South African goalkeeper Hendrik Kriek to give Malaysia a deserved lead.
South Africa responded just before halftime. Angelo Walstroom weaved through two defenders and beat Hafizuddin Othman to equalize, making it 1-1 at the break.
The Tigers came out stronger after the interval, pressing high and piling pressure on South Africa’s backline. Their efforts paid off in the 37th minute when Shafiq Hassan restored Malaysia’s lead, much to the delight of the home crowd.
Just two minutes later, Akhimullah Anuar Esook got his name on the scoresheet, slotting home a precise pass from Norsyafiq Sumantri into an unguarded net to make it 3-1.
Though Carlon Mentoor struck back for South Africa in the 51st minute to reduce the deficit, Fitri Saari quickly responded with a goal of his own just two minutes later, restoring Malaysia’s two-goal cushion at 4-2.
South Africa pushed forward in the closing stages, but Malaysia’s defense held firm to secure the win.
The victory sets up a fifth-place playoff showdown between Malaysia and Wales on June 21. Wales earned their spot with a thrilling 6-4 win over Japan in the other crossover match.
Credit Photo : Hokita
