Malaysia came from 2-1 down to defeat Korea 5-2 and claim the bronze medal in the Hero Asian Champions Trophy Hockey Tournament at Olympian Balbir Singh Senior Hockey Stadium in Mohali on Thursday.
The Asian Games silver medalists ended a three-match losing streak after defeats to India and Japan in the pool stage and another loss to Japan in the semifinals. However, they had to overcome an early challenge from a young, experimental Korean side.
Korea entered the bronze medal match after losing 8-0 and 8-1 to India over the previous three days but produced a competitive first-half performance.
Fittri Saari gave Malaysia the lead in the second minute, but Korea equalized three minutes later. Geonwoo Park helped create an opening that caught the Malaysian defense out of position before finishing the move himself.
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Korea continued to press and took a 2-1 lead in the 13th minute through an opportunistic goal by Semin Chun.
Malaysia pushed for an equalizer, but Korea’s organized defense restricted its opponents’ space and protected the lead through halftime.
Four minutes into the second half, Fazal Saari converted a penalty corner with a drag flick to bring Malaysia level at 2-2.
The equalizer gave Malaysia renewed attacking momentum, although Korea had an opportunity to regain the lead. Following a strong run through the middle, Chun forced Malaysian goalkeeper Zaimi Mat Deris into a fine save with a powerful reverse flick from the top of the striking circle.
Malaysia’s improved coordination and attacking combinations increasingly troubled the Korean defense. Abu Kamal Azrai led the effort, scoring twice and later earning player of the match honors.
Aiman Rozemi’s run down the right flank set up Azrai’s first goal. Azrai added another with a reverse flick, prompting Korea to request a video review. The challenge was unsuccessful, and Malaysia’s fourth goal stood.
Marham Jalili completed the scoring in the 52nd minute, converting a penalty stroke to seal the 5-2 victory and the bronze medal.
The match was followed by a closing ceremony featuring Punjabi folk performances and a gatka demonstration accompanied by drums. Folk singer Ranjit Bawa also performed for the crowd, which included school students who accounted for nearly one-fifth of those in attendance. A fireworks display added to the celebrations.
