Malaysia’s Speedy Tigers have finished the 2026 Hockey World Cup in 16th place after suffering a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to Wales following a 2-2 draw in the classification match for 15th and 16th at Belfius Hockey Arena, Warve.
Malaysia fought back twice during a closely contested encounter, but Wales held their nerve in the shootout to claim a 2-1 victory, securing 15th place while leaving the Speedy Tigers at the bottom of the tournament standings.
Malaysia started slowly and were punished in the 29th minute when Benjamin Francis broke the deadlock for Wales.
The Speedy Tigers responded after the interval. In the 41st minute, Faizal Saari restored parity with an important equaliser, giving Malaysia renewed momentum.
The national side then completed the comeback in the 52nd minute. Akhimullah Anuar Esook found the back of the net to put Malaysia 2-1 ahead and seemingly put them on course to finish the tournament with a victory.
However, the lead lasted only one minute. Wales responded almost instantly through Liam Barker, who levelled the contest at 2-2.
Neither side could find another goal during the remainder of regulation time, forcing the classification match to be decided through a penalty shootout.
With 15th place at stake, the pressure intensified. Malaysia struggled to convert from the spot.
Fitri Saari was the only Speedy Tigers player to successfully score his penalty.
Wales, meanwhile, remained composed. Jolyon Morgan and Jack Pritchard both found the target to give Wales a 2-1 shootout victory.
The result confirmed Wales in 15th place, with Malaysia finishing 16th overall.
Credit Photo : WORLDSPORTPICS
