Malaysia’s hockey team lost 4-5 to Japan in a thrilling third-place playoff but retain a strong chance to qualify for the 2026 World Cup via world rankings

THE Malaysian men’s hockey team, the Speedy Tigers, were narrowly defeated 4-5 by Japan in a pulsating third-fourth place playoff at the 2026 World Cup Qualifier.

Japan opened the scoring through Ryoma Ooka in the 15th minute before Malaysia equalised via Fitri Saari on the half-hour mark.

The Speedy Tigers then surged ahead to a 3-1 lead with field goals from Marhan Jalil and Syed Cholan.

Japan fought back valiantly to level the scores at 3-3 through Kazumasa Matsumoto and Raiki Fujishima.

Koji Yamasaki then scored a quick brace in the 55th and 57th minutes to give Japan a decisive 5-3 advantage.

A late goal from Faizal Saari in the 58th minute proved only a consolation as Japan held on for the win.

Despite the defeat, Malaysia remains in a strong position to qualify for the 2026 Hockey World Cup.

The team is currently ranked 15th in the world, ahead of other contenders Wales and Poland.

The final qualification spot will be awarded to the highest-ranked team among the two third-place playoff losers from both qualifying tournaments.

 The Sun Malaysia