THE Malaysian women’s hockey team must beat Japan in Round Two of the World League in New Delhi, India, today.
Coach Nasihin Nubli and his charges were left with only one option to qualify for the Semi-Finals stage for a shot at playing in the World Cup.
Their task was made difficult after Japan held India to a 2-2 draw and then beat them 3-2 in the penalty shoot-out which left both sides with 10 points each with a match to spare.
Malaysia, who have nine points from three wins, fell behind as the tournament has a unique format where every match must produce a winner.
And if there is a draw, a penalty shoot out is conducted where the winners collect two points and the losers one point.
Japan, who has two wins and two draws, won both their shoot-outs and this has given them the edge even though Malaysia have won three matches.
And after beating Fiji 12-0 on Saturday, Nasihin said: “The big win has set up the mood to challenge Japan, and I am confident we will not disappoint.”
