KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will play Pakistan in the semi-finals of the Junior Asia Cup in Oman after topping Group B with maximum points from four matches.
Amin Rahim's side edged hosts Oman 1-0 in their final group game at the Sultan Qaboos Stadium on Monday.
What should have been an easy match almost turned into a nightmare, as Oman were the better team.
Malaysia had to rely on a penalty stroke to claim three points.
Shahmie Irfan Suhaimi scored the penalty stroke in the 48th minute.
Malaysia will play Group A runners-up Pakistan while India take on South Korea in the semi-finals tomorrow.
All four teams have qualified for the Junior World Cup in KL in December.
"My players knew very well that Oman would not let them have a walk in the park, and that exactly happened.
"They took matters too casually and almost paid the price for it.
"However, every team will have a bad match in a tournament. I believe my players will not disappoint against Pakistan in the semi-finals," said Amin.
Amin added: "Pakistan are fast and fit but have weaknesses.
"Pakistan and India were the best performers in Group A. When we meet Pakistan, my players must exploit their weaknesses," said Amin.
With Asia's three slots confirmed, the 16-team Junior World Cup will be made up of Malaysia, India, Pakistan, South Korea (Asia); Belgium, France, Germany, Netherlands and Spain (Europe); Australia and New Zealand (Oceania); South Africa and Egypt (Africa); Argentina, Canada and Chile (Pan America).