Home minister: Malaysia, Japan to strengthen cooperation to combat transnational crime

KUALA LUMPUR: In a dramatic Under-21 Sultan of Johor Cup (SoJC) match, Malaysia staged a late comeback against Japan, defeating them 4-2 at Taman Daya Hockey Stadium on Tuesday, February 13. Earlier on Sunday, Malaysia had beaten China 3-0. The match was marked by a turning point in the final quarter. Japan took the lead in the 19th minute through Matsuki Mori's field goal.

Malaysia equalized shortly after, with Hafiezuddin Ali scoring a penalty stroke in the 27th minute after Aferullsyah Ahmad Azuan Syahril was fouled by Kazato Baba. However, Japan regained the lead in the 43rd minute as Rintaro Sakai scored from close range off a counter-attack. Despite this, Malaysia's Gagandeep Singh's goal off a reverse stick in the 48th minute was ruled out due to dangerous play, as confirmed by a video referral.

In the closing minutes, Malaysia's Aferullsyah scored a penalty corner, followed by T. Naaveenesh Panicker and Dheeressh Gunaseelan also netting goals from penalty corners. Malaysia's coach, Nor Saiful Zaini, commended his team's remarkable fighting spirit in mounting the comeback. Referring to the intense match against Japan, Nor Saiful expressed optimism about his players' recovery to face Pakistan in the next round.

Earlier, Canada had bounced back from two prior defeats to claim their first victory at the SoJC by defeating China 3-2.