Goalkeeper Muhammad Hafizuddin Othman will have to play a key role to deny an well-oiled Japanese team tonight in a crucial match which will determine Malaysia’s hopes of defending their title in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup which ends on Saturday.
Hafizuddin played a pivotal role in Malaysia’s 6-4 victory over Paris Olympics-bound New Zealand on Monday night to keep alive for a final berth.
The 32-year-old Hafizuddin, who has 107 international caps under his belt, was instrumental in keeping the marauding Black Sticks attacking machinery from scoring more goals following a strong comeback in the fourth quarter.
The most tense and crucial moment for the Speedy Tigers came when New Zealand were awarded a second penalty stroke opportunity towards the end of the first half. But Jonty Elmes’ effort went in vain as Hafizuddin padded the ball away. The Malaysians, ranked world No 14, held a 4-2 lead at that stage.
It was, nevertheless, a proud moment for Hafizuddin as he was aptly awarded the Man of the Match Award, for his outstanding performance against the World No. 10 side. In the 2022 edition, Hafizuddin received the award twice – against Pakistan and Japan.
A bigger task, however awaits the Speedy Tigers and Hafizuddin will be required to script another stunning performance against Japan in the crucial pool match tonight.
A win over the high-riding Japanese, who have won two matches (beat New Zealand 4-1 and Korea 2-1) and drew 1-1 against Pakistan, would strengthen Malaysia’s journey to Saturday’s final, before concluding the pool fixtures against the South Koreans on Friday.
“It was a tough match keeping New Zealand out of scoring opportunities. But it was also a team effort. The defenders played a big part. In the penalty stroke my instincts helped me make a positive decision,” said Hafizuddin, who hails from Terengganu and plays for THT in the Malaysia Hockey League.
“The penalty stroke was awarded with just 18 seconds remaining at the end of the second quarter. There was a lot of pressure on me to stop New Zealand. If he had scored, we would be returning to the dressing room with the score 4-3 and I did not want that kind of situation,” he said.
As for the match against Japan, Hafizuddin said he would do his best to keep the fast and fit Japanese forwards at bay, come rain or shine.
National coach Sarjit Singh, on the other hand, acknowledged Hazifuudin’s strength in goal.
“Haziufuddin certainly played a key role in our victory over New Zealand besides our scoring prowess,” said Sarjit.
However, Sarjit was also quick to add, that it was the team effort, especially he senior players guiding the younger players in the game to give them confidence at high level international matches like this.
“As I have repeatedly said that we are building the team with many youngsters and every match is a learning curve for them. They have done well so far and improving, but there is still a lot more this team is capable off and only time and experience will see their true potential,” said Sarjit.
“A good result against high riding Japan will be a tremendous boost for the team, but it not going to come easy. As usual, the team will work hard and I am very happy with the commitment of the players.
“However, we have to be cautious to be fully focused for the full duration of the game and avoid making mistakes for our opponents to capitalise on it and punish us.
“In any case, Japan is a formidable side and we have to be at our best.”