KUALA LUMPUR: Reigning Asian junior champion Leong Jun Hao is confident Malaysia will reach the final of the BWF World Junior Championships in Yogyakarta on Saturday.
Jun Hao, who was a suspect prior to the meet due to an injury, showed no signs of slacking, when he helped the national mixed team beat India 3-0 in the quarter-finals on Thursday.
The 18-year-old, when contacted said: "I believe the team is ready to face anybody. We showed great spirit against India today.
"Yes I had issues with my back, but I hardly think about it when I'm on court. After all, we also have our physiotherapist here to manage our injuries."
Mixed doubles Ng Eng Cheong-Tan Sueh Jeou delivered Malaysia's first point with a 21-18, 21-10 win over Dhruv Kapila-U.K. Mithula.
Jun Hao, then doubled the lead with a convincing 21-13, 21-15 victory over Lakshya Sen, before Kuala Lumpur Sea Games (KL2017) gold medallist Goh Jin Wei secured the quarter-final tie with a 21-12, 21-12 win over Ashmita Chaliha.
Malaysia, who played second fiddle to China last year, will take on top seeds South Korea next on Friday.
The Koreans had earlier fought hard to carve out a 3-2 win over France in the last eight stage.
"I think the team has got what it takes to reach the final. Korea are a strong side, but I am confident we can beat them," added Jun Hao.
The other semi-final on Friday sees Japan take on favourites China.