Malaysia’s men’s hockey team secures a 2026 World Cup qualifier semi-final spot with a thrilling 5-4 victory over China in Ismailia, Egypt

THE national men’s hockey squad, the Speedy Tigers, confirmed their progress to the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign after a thrilling 5-4 victory over China in their final Group B match.

The result saw Malaysia finish the group as runners-up behind Pakistan, who had earlier defeated Austria 4-2.

Head coach Sarjit Singh’s men started brilliantly when Mohd Fitri Saari opened the scoring in the fifth minute through a penalty corner.

China equalised a minute later through Wang Yaqi’s field goal before Zhao Yulai put his team ahead with a penalty stroke in the 16th minute.

Nik Muhammad Aiman Nik Rozemi then equalised for Malaysia with two minutes remaining in the second quarter.

The Speedy Tigers doubled their lead in the second half with three more goals from Faiz Helmi Jali in the 36th minute, Mohd Fitri in the 43rd and Faizal Saari in the 47th.

China fought back with two late goals from Zhao Yulai and Chen Benhai, but they were not enough to deny Malaysia’s victory.

Malaysia will face England at 12.45am on Saturday, Malaysian time, in the semi-finals.

The top three teams from this qualifying campaign will earn automatic slots for the 2026 World Cup.

 The Sun Malaysia