KUALA LUMPUR: The Speedy Tigers find themselves virtually out of contention for a semi-final spot, with only pride motivating them at the Nations Cup in Gniezno, Poland.
Sarjit Singh's men have managed only one point from two Group B matches and will face off against world No. 20 Canada in their final pool match on Wednesday.
In their opening match, world No. 13 Malaysia failed to maintain their 3-0 and 4-1 leads against No. 16 Pakistan as the former world champions fought back to seal a 4-4 draw, scoring their final goal via a penalty stroke in the final minute of the match.
On Monday, Malaysia were outclassed 3-1 by world No. 9 France in their second group game.
France scored through Timothee Clement (fifth minute), Francois Goyet (43rd) and Etinne Tynevez (60th).
Faizal Saari scored for Malaysia in the 28th minute.
Despite having a fighting chance to earn a point while trailing 2-1 against France, all hopes faded when the umpire awarded a penalty stroke to the European team.
While Malaysia still hold a mathematical chance of reaching the semi-finals, they must defeat Canada by a huge margin.
However, for Malaysia to progress, Pakistan must lose by a significant margin against France on Wednesday.
As it stands, France lead the standings with six points, followed by Pakistan with four, while Malaysia sit third with one point. Canada have yet to secure a point.
Expressing his disappointment, Sarjit said his team should have secured a victory against Pakistan.
"Losing to France has placed us in a difficult situation. Pakistan hold a superior goal difference, and tomorrow (Wednesday), they will face France after our match against Canada.
"Playing in a later match will offer Pakistan an advantage as they can adjust their game to meet the required result against France to secure a spot in the semi-finals.
"I have reminded my players to give their best against Canada. I will not pressure them, as some are making their international hockey debut," said Sarjit.
Among the national team debutants are Nur Rahull Hriskesa Thaitchana Muruthi, Syawal Abdul Razak, Kamarulzaman Kamaruddin, and Faris Harizan.
Wednesday's fixtures
Group B: Malaysia vs Canada (9.30pm) Pakistan vs France (12am)
* Malaysian time