Asian Games 2026: Malaysia enter final stretch with sepak takraw gold shot, Azeem still in 100m hunt

NAGOYA, Sept 25 — As the Malaysian delegation at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games continues its upward trajectory, several sports enter the decisive stage, presenting the nation with more opportunities to secure medals before the games conclude. While the focus over the past two days centered on gold, yesterday's events highlighted stories of resilience and opportunities still abound.

In sepaktakraw, Malaysia's national team mounted a remarkable comeback by defeating Indonesia 2-1 in the semi-finals, securing a spot in the final against defending champions Thailand. This triumph reignites Malaysia's ambition of ending a 36-year wait to claim gold, after their last podium finish at the Beijing 1990 Asian Games.

On the track, Muhammad Azeem Mohd Fahmi advanced to the men's 100m semi-finals after finishing fastest in the fifth heat with a time of 10.17 seconds, ensuring an athletics representative in the podium contention. Additionally, Malaysia's squash team maintains its pursuit of medals as representatives advance to the quarterfinals.

In men's hockey, Malaysia continued its winning streak by defeating Thailand 10-0 in Group B, while discus thrower Muhammad Irfan Shamsuddin's 56.37m throw fell short of qualifying for the top eight, prolonging the nation's medal hunt. The seventh day promises more challenges, with the sepaktakraw final against Thailand and Azeem's men's 100m semi-final test looming.