KUALA LUMPUR: In May, Pakistan thrashed Malaysia 6-2 in the Junior Asia Cup semi-finals in Oman.
Tomorrow, Malaysia will have a chance for revenge in a crucial Sultan of Johor Cup (SoJC) Group B match at Taman Daya Stadium, Johor Baru.
Malaysia are out of the semi-final running following two successive defeats to New Zealand (3-2) and India (3-1), and Amin Rahim's side have nothing to play for but their pride, aiming at least a third-place finish in the group.
Nonetheless, all hope is not lost, as Malaysia can still redeem themselves by aiming for a fifth-place finish in a tournament that has attracted some of the world's best junior hockey teams.
The SoJC serves as a valuable preparation ground for the Junior World Cup (JWC) in Kuala Lumpur from Dec 5-16.
Team manager I. Vikneswaran expressed optimism despite the setbacks.
"We are out of the semi-finals after losing (two) matches, which we could have won.
"Leaving that behind, the Malaysian camp is still positive ahead of their match against Pakistan as we prepare for the JWC.
"We need to win this match to erase the thrashing received at the Junior Asia Cup."
Adding to the positivity, 16-year-old Eswaran George's international debut has been nothing short of impressive.
Eswaran's talent surfaced during the recent Junior Hockey League, where he netted seven goals for Penang – four from field goals, two from penalty corners and one from a penalty stroke.
"Eswaran took his international debut like duck to water and is a hardworking player.
"Despite his role as a striker, he often contributes to the defence, which greatly benefits the team.
"He is also well-liked by his teammates, both on and off the pitch," Vikneswaran added.
Malaysia are in Group A of the JWC and are expected to face a tough time against Australia, Argentina and Chile to break into the quarter-finals.
Australia have exhibited exceptional form in the SoJC, notably with their 6-1 victory over South Africa in a recent Group A match.
Pakistan team manager Asif Naz Khokhar said his men need to win the last group match and top the table.
"We must beat Malaysia to top the table. We are here with a mission to prepare for the JWC. Half the teams in the SoJC will also play in the JWC, making this a crucial tournament for us.
"From what I have seen, Malaysia are a skilled and fast team, both in attack and defence.
"Our strength in this tournament has been in penalty corners, and I believe my players will be able to score more and secure the top position," said Asif Naz.
FIXTURES (Oct 31, 2023)
Group A: Germany v Britain (4pm), South Africa v Australia (6pm).
Group B: Malaysia v Pakistan (8.30pm).
*All matches at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru