CHENGDU: Denmark’s men’s second singles, Anders Antonsen hoped that his teammates won’t look down on Malaysia’s ‘threat’ ahead of their final Group D fixture on Tuesday.
Though Malaysia is fielding a ‘depleted’ men’s singles squad, Antonsen still expects Malaysia to give them a run for their money during the world’s most prestigious badminton team tournament in Chengdu High-Tech Zone Sports Centre.
“I really look forward to the tough fixture against Malaysia. I believe it’s going to be a fun match and we will do our best,” he told reporters in a post-match interview here, today.
Earlier, the newly-crowned 2024 European Championships winner had no problem to outplay Youcef Sabri Medel of Algeria, 21-13, 21-12 and helped his country to a 5-0 victory against the minnows from Africa during their first Group D match.
Malaysian men’s singles camp faced a setback in the Thomas Cup 2024 following the absence of 2022 Commonwealth Games silver medallist Ng Tze Yong due to delayed recovery from back surgery.
As a result, Malaysia turned to 2017 Asian Junior champion Leong Jun Hao, followed by Cheam June Wei and Justin Hoh in Chengdu.
However, Zii Jia, Jun Hao and Justin, ‘sounded’ early warning following their impressive display to help Malaysia recorded a convincing 5-0 victory against Hong Kong in the other Group D match.
World number 10 Zii Jia delivered the first point for Malaysia when he defeated Lee Cheuk Yiu, ranked 15th, 21-18-21-18.
Jun Hao, ranked 37th, stole the limelight as he caused an upset over world number 27 Angus Ng Ka Long, 17-21, 21-12, 21-15 while Justin wrapped up the tie for Malaysia by defeating Chan Yin Chak in 21-17, 19-21, 21-17.
Today’s results put Malaysia in favourable position to march to the last eight, provided they emerge victorious against Algeria tomorrow before taking on Denmark.
Despite his comfortable win over Sabri, Antonsen, who is currently the world’s fourth best player, expressed dissatisfaction with his performance.
“To be honest, today’s match was not the greatest badminton I’ve played and I definitely need to step up in the next game,’ he said.
