Men’s Hockey World Cup 2018 – Preview: Pakistan Vs Malaysia Pool Match
Pakistan plays its second match of the Hockey World Cup 2018 at Bhubaneswar against Malaysia. This is arguably Pakistan’s most crucial pool match. The other two teams in the pool are the European heavyweights, Holland (world ranking 4) and Germany (no 6). The intensity of this encounter is heightened by the need for both teams to redeem themselves after their disappointing opening games.
The Asian sides Pakistan (no 13) and Malaysia (no 12) have lost their opening games, Pakistan 0-1 to Germany and Malaysia 0-7 to Holland. The stakes are high for both teams; it will be a tall order for Pakistan and Malaysia to secure points from their last pool games against Holland and Germany respectively. As per this World Cup’s format, only the winner of the pool gets direct qualification for the quarter finals. Teams finishing second and third would play cross overs with the third and second from another pool. This structure makes every match critical, especially for teams looking to advance.
Men’s Hockey World Cup 2018: Scheduled Matches & Points Table (4.12.18)
All this makes the Pak/Malaysia encounter vital for both the sides. They have met four times in the World Cup with Pakistan winning each time.
Significance of the Hockey World Cup 2018 for Pakistan and Malaysia
Given their history in the World Cup, the pressure is immense on both teams. The rivalry between Pakistan and Malaysia adds another layer of excitement to the match. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how both teams will adjust their strategies after poor performances in their initial matches.
- 1973: Pakistan beat Malaysia 4-2
- 1975: Pakistan beat Malaysia 2-1
- 1978: Pakistan beat Malaysia 3-0
- 1998: Pakistan beat Malaysia 7-2
Malaysia’s best performance at the World Cup was fourth position in 1975 when they hosted the event. Malaysia might not be a world beater but during recent times, the national team has been producing good results at least at the continental level. In 2010, they reached the final of the Asian Games for the first time after failing to do so in the previous 13 appearances. In the 2018 Asian Games, Malaysia almost won the gold medal. After taking a 5-2 lead, they allowed Japan to claw back at 6-6 and then win the shootout 3-1.
In recent years, Malaysia has shown significant improvement in their performance on the international stage. Their ability to compete well against established teams raises hopes for a thrilling encounter. The Malaysian players have been training rigorously, emphasizing tactical play and teamwork. Their journey in the Hockey World Cup 2018 has been marked by determination and resilience, which could potentially lead to surprising outcomes on the field.
In 2017, they had their maiden appearance in the final of the Asia Cup. Pakistan and Malaysia have come across thrice recently, with green shirts winning each time. At the Asian Champions Trophy this October, Pakistan twice defeated Malaysia in the round robin and the semifinal, on shootout in the latter. While at the Asian Games in August, Pakistan had outplayed Malaysia 4-1.
On the other hand, Pakistan’s rich hockey tradition and past successes provide them with a psychological edge. The players are keen to prove their mettle against Malaysia, a team they have historically bested. Each match is not just a game; it is a matter of pride for the players and the nation. They will look to capitalize on their previous victories and build momentum heading into this critical match.
But what makes Pakistan favourites against Malaysia was their display in the match against Germany last Saturday. Most had predicted a runaway win for the Germans. However, the green shirts surprised everyone, playing almost at par against a side ranked seven places above before losing by a solitary goal.
As the match approaches, both teams are expected to analyze their opponents closely. Pakistan will look to improve their offensive strategies, focusing on converting opportunities into goals, while Malaysia may prioritize strengthening their defense to avoid conceding goals. Coaching staff from both sides will play a crucial role in devising game plans that can exploit the weaknesses of the other team.
Tailpiece: Famed Dutch coach Roelant Oltman, who was with the Pakistan team till before the Asian Champions Trophy, is now the coach of Malaysia. However, Pakistan twice defeated Malaysia at the Asian Champions Trophy with Oltman at the Malaysian bench. This dynamic adds drama to the upcoming match, as both teams will aim to outsmart each other under the pressure of Oltman’s insights.
For more updates about the Hockey World Cup 2018, keep visiting allsportspk. Stay tuned for in-depth analyses and coverage of matches as the tournament progresses.
