Belgium crushed Canada 12-0 in the Men’s Hockey Junior World Cup 9-16 classification match, the highest score in the championship at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil today.
Max Luyton and Hugo Labouchere scored four goals each, Lucas Balthazar completed a hat-trick while Thomas Crols aided with one goal as the Belgians set up a showdown with Malaysia on Wednesday’s 9-12 classification match.
It was the biggest win by Belgium in the ongoing JWC. In earlier pool matches, Germany trounced Egypt 10-0, and India claimed a 10-1 victory over Canada.
The Belgians, who did not qualify for the quarterfinals stage, have yet to recover from the disappointment – their motivation level at its lo west ebb despite flushing 12 goals past the Canadians.
“The players got together and we talked about the match against Canada today. They are heartbroken after our failure to qualify for the quarterfinals, as we drew 1-1 against Pakistan,” said Belgium coach Jeroen Bart.
“We went on a city tour and also to Batu Caves to relax our minds and get away from hockey. It was a beautiful experience traveling in the city.
“For some players, this World Cup is their last. We arrived here with the plan of winning a medal. Now we will aim for a ninth placing finish and nothing more. Whatever it is, we have to move forward,” he added.
And that certainly sounded like a warning to Malaysia to expect a torrid time from them.
Indeed, Malaysia have an uphill task, especially after their below-par performances so far.
Can Malaysia create an upset to disappoint the Belgians for a second time after Pakistan hurt them?
It is easier said than done. But Malaysia have nothing to lose against the Belgians and should play their guts out to redeem some pride for themselves.
Results: 9-16 Classifications: Malaysia 4 Egypt 1; Belgium 12 Canada 0; South Africa 5 Chile 1; New Zealand 3 South Korea 2.
Fixtures – Wednesday (12 December):
9-12 Classifications: Malaysia v Belgium (1.30pm); South Africa v New Zealand (3.45pm).
13-16 Classifications: Egypt v Canada (9.0am); Chile v South Korea (11.15am)
