Malaysia’s senior hockey team began their Europe tour with a thrilling 3-2 win over a Belgium ‘B’ side at the Sportentrum Wilrijkse Plein Stadium in Antwerp yesterday.
The Speedy Tigers delivered an energetic performance to wrap up this first of three friendly matches against the Belgians. Midfielder Mohd Fitri Saari stunned the Belgians with a penalty stroke goal in the 24th minute. But Belgium struck back two minutes later with a penalty stroke goal to level the score at 1-1.
Forwards Faizal Saari and Muhammad Azrai Aizad Abu Kamal extended the lead to 3-1 with field goals in the 38th and 51st minutes before Belgium pulled a goal back four minutes to the end of regulation time from a penalty corner. The final score stood at Malaysia 3 Belgium 2.
National senior team head coach Sarjit Singh said he was satisfied with the performance of the Speedy Tigers in this first match.
“It was a high intensity match before the team could settle down and score the first goal. Overall, the players played well. This is the kind of opposition and exposure the Malaysians need to further develop their game,” said Sarjit when contacted in Antwerp.
“The defence played well today, especially Faiz (Helmi Jali). He was outstanding and was hard working,” added Sarjit. Both teams had a lot of opportunities and I am happy with how this first match went.”
“This Belgium ‘B’ team is preparing for the 2028 Olympics. The players will form the catalyst of the Belgium team four years from now. We had a good match. There was structure,” said Sarjit.
Belgium’s national hockey team, also known as the Red Lions, finished off their FIH Hockey Pro League campaign on a triumphant note, recording a 5-3 win over the Netherlands, in Amsterdam on Sunday.
“We have matches on July 3rd and 5th. Maybe some of the players who featured in the Pro League may play against us. But let’s wait and see. They also have their own programme,” he added.