Malaysian Squad Proudly Makes It Through the 2024 Hockey5s World Cup

BY: Michelle Liew

Malaysia has safely booked a ticket to the 2024 Hockey5s World Cup being one of the top four teams at the 2023 Asia Cup 5's Hockey Championship in Salalah, Oman, yesterday.

Joining the Malaysian contingent are India and Pakistan, as well as Oman, as the host for the match which will taking place from 24 to 31 January next in Muscat, Oman.

Malaysia is currently in third place in the men's elite category with 10 points while the first and second rankings belong to Pakistan (13 points) and India (12 points).

Despite the good news, the Malaysian squad underwent a rough start conceding 4-10 to India in the semi-finals of the Asia Cup 2023 5's Hockey Tournament in Salalah, Oman, yesterday.

India got off to a flying start when they scored the opening goal courtesy of Maninder Singh in the second minute before Ismail Abu equalized two minutes later.

The national squad continued to double the position through Mohamad Akhimullah Anuar Esok's field goal in the seventh minute. India continued to maintain dominance when Pawan Rajbhar hit a field goal in the 13th minute.

Continuing the second half, India continued its masterclass when Mohammed Raheel scored his second personal goal a minute after the start of the match, but Malaysia responded with two consecutive goals in the 19th minute through Mohamad Akhimullah Anuar Esok and Muhamad Nazrey Din.

The team aims to bounce back in its subsequent matches as it gears up to play against the host Oman in their bid for 3rd place.

We congratulate the Malaysian hockey team for their stellar achievement.