MANILA: Malaysia, as expected, reached the semi-finals of the men’s badminton team event following an effortless 3-0 win over the Philippines at the Muntinlupa Sports Complex today.
The Lee Zii Jia-led team will face Singapore, who thrashed Myanmar 3-0, tomorrow for a place in the final.
Zii Jia earned Malaysia’s first point against the Philippines with a 21-12, 21-8 thrashing of Ros Leenard Pedrosa in men’s singles before doubles Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik grabbed the second point after overcoming Peter Gabriel Magnaye-Alvin Nitura Morada 21-17, 21-14.
Soong Joo Ven then defeated Lanz Ralf Uy Zafra 21-15, 21-17 in the second men’s singles match to hand Malaysia an unassailable 3-0 lead.
BA of Malaysia director of coaching Wong Choong Hann said the shuttlers had a good workout at the venue.
“We fielded our best shuttlers as we wanted them to adapt to the condition of the venue ahead of tougher ties.
“Singapore will be no pushovers. Our players need to focus and avoid taking their matches lightly tomorrow,” said Choong Hann.
The other semi-final pits Indonesia, who received a quarter-final bye, against Thailand, who thrashed Cambodia 3-0.
In women’s semi-finals today, Malaysia, who received a walkover from Cambodia, will face Thailand while Indonesia will meet Singapore.