AAG: Malaysia: Going for a big kill
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| Malaysia |
October 25, 2003
Malay Mail
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Mustapha Kamaruddin
MALAYSIA better beat Ghana by many goals in their second Group A match of the Afro-Asian Games in Hyderabad today as their semifinal chances may hinge on goal difference.
The Malaysians, in their opening match on Thursday, fought back to hold South Africa 1-1.
It is interesting to note that this is the first time in hockey that Malaysia are up against Ghana, who are considered minnows.
The Malaysians, however, should know about the Africans' game after watching them lose 3-0 to South Korea on Thursday.
"We played against Kenya, Zimbabwe and Egypt before but never against Ghana," said team manager Zulkifli Abbas.
"What's important is for our players not to take things for granted as they tend to do so when competing against lesser known teams.
"Instead, they should strive for a better performance than the one they produced against South Africa." The Africans employ robust tactics to restrict their opponents, meaning the Malaysians should be prepared for physical contacts.
And Nigeria surprisingly made life difficult for Pakistan on Thursday before going down 4-3.
This suggests the standard of not only South Africa and Egypt, but also other African teams, is on the way up.
The more skilful Malaysians can expect to face an uncompromising Ghana defence today.
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