Malaysia took third spot in the 9th edition of the Sultan of Johor Cup with a thrilling 3-2 win over Japan.
This was Malaysia’s first podium finish since 2015 where they also ended up third.
“ We are happy to have won but really we have an issue with concerting chances we created,” said coach Nor Saiful Zaini Nasirudfin,
“ The fact remains we need more matches. As evident we improved as the tournament progressed.”
Malaysia had a dream start as they took a 2-0 lead by first 18 minutes.
Akhimullah Anuar finally broke his dick by netting the opening goal in the 14tb minute.
Buoyed by that, the home team added the second four minutes later, this time through Adam Aiman Mamat.
Japan fought back to reduce the deficit in the 23rd minute through a penalty corner converted by Riku Tamura.
At halftime Malaysia led Japan 2-1.
Though Japan dominated early play in the third quarter, it was Mohd Syafiq Hassan that netted the next goal, his effort in the 37th minute to give Malaysia a 3-1 lead.
Keigo Tamura converted a penalty corner in the 57th minute to reduce the deficit to 3-2.
Though Japan had another penalty corner in the final minute, they failed to make it count.
