KUALA LUMPUR: Backed by the fans, an inspired French shuttler, Toma Junior Popov, could turn a spoiler to Lee Zii Jia's dream of winning an Olympic medal in Paris.
The world No. 7 Zii Jia, the former All England champion, will take on world No. 20 Popov in the men's singles last-16 match not before 8.10pm at Porte de la Chapelle Arena on Thursday.
Zii Jia emerged as the Group G champion when he defeated Pablo Abian of Spain 21-10, 21-13 on Wednesday.
Popov, meanwhile, pulled off a major upset in Group H when he defeated world No. 9 Anthony Sinisuka Ginting of Indonesia 21-19, 17-21, 21-15 to reach the last 16.
Zii Jia will hold an advantage ahead of the last-16 encounter, having beaten the Frenchman in all four previous meetings.
Former national player Datuk James Selvaraj feels Zii Jia should approach the match cautiously and play to his strength to beat the 25-year-old Popov.
"Zii Jia may have defeated Popov four times, but it is different in the Olympics. Furthermore, Popov will get the support of the home fans today (Thursday).
"The Malaysian must give his best and kill the shuttle as early as possible.
"The plan is not to give Popov time and space during the match.
"Popov has improved as a player, and Zii Jia has to be careful. I believe the win over Ginting has given Popov confidence, so it will not be an easy battle for the Malaysian," said James.