Asian Hockey Champions Trophy: China Secures Dramatic 4-2 Victory Over Malaysia

On the second day of the Asian Champions Trophy, hosts China delivered a thrilling 4-2 victory against Malaysia at the Moqi Training Base on Monday. The win was driven by standout performances from Jiesheng Gao, who scored twice (9′, 32′), Changliang Lin (40′), and Jieming Chao (56′).

Despite Malaysia’s strong start, characterized by better ball possession and circle penetrations, China took the lead early with a spectacular penalty corner goal by Jiesheng Gao in the 9th minute. Energized by the enthusiastic home crowd, China showcased aggressive, attacking hockey. Malaysia quickly equalized with a goal from Azrai Abu Kamal in the 14th minute.

China intensified their attack in the second quarter, but the Malaysian defense held firm, preventing any further goals. Malaysia created several opportunities, with eight circle entries and two solid shots on goal, but failed to capitalize.

The third quarter saw China reclaim the lead with a skillful dragflick just two minutes in, following a goalless second quarter. Despite Malaysia’s efforts, including several chances and three penalty corners, they could not convert. In the 40th minute, Changliang Lin extended China’s lead to 3-1.

Malaysia reduced the deficit to 3-2 with a penalty corner goal from Faizal Saari in the 50th minute. However, a penalty stroke awarded to China in the 56th minute, due to a defensive infringement by Malaysia, sealed the match. Jieming Chao converted the stroke effortlessly, securing China’s first win of the tournament.

China’s captain, Meng Dihao, expressed his satisfaction with the result, saying, “We are thrilled with the win. The support from the crowd was fantastic, and we will carry this confidence into our next match against Korea.”