Malaysia’s junior hockey squad prepares for tough European challenge against Netherlands, England and Austria in 2025 Junior World Cup group stage
KUALA LUMPUR: The national junior hockey squad are determined to be more cautious and better prepared against European teams at the 2025 Junior Hockey World Cup in Tamil Nadu, India.
National junior hockey team head coach Nor Saiful Zaini Nasiruddin said European sides Netherlands, England and Austria pose an early threat in Group E.
“Their playing style and capabilities are certainly different,” he said at a press conference announcing the national squad for the World Cup.
“We are focusing more on the Netherlands, but Austria are also a very good team and seem ready to compete at the next level.”
Nor Saiful noted England’s tactical strength, recalling their intense match during the recent Sultan of Johor Cup.
“That’s what I mean by the tactical edge of the European teams that we must be wary of,” he said.
The team is conducting active video analysis of matches to strengthen gameplay aspects against these opponents.
The coach also reminded the Young Tigers to minimise mistakes on the pitch during the tournament.
The national junior squad will leave for India for two warm-up matches against Ireland on November 24 and Namibia on November 25.
These matches serve as final preparation before the tournament proper from November 28 to December 10. – Bernama
