Embarrassing end to Malaysia’s title hopes in Istaf Super Series

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South Korea’s Im An Soo (left) and Malaysia’s Khairol Zaman in action during their men’s semi-final of Istaf Super Series in Gunsan City, South Korea. — Reuters photo

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s hopes of retaining the Istaf International Super Series title was dealt an embarrassing blow by unheralded South Korea in their semi-final encounter.

South Korea who are hosting the tournament, convincingly beat Malaysia 2-0 in straight sets to book their berth in the final against Thailand.

The Malaysian trio comprising Sahidan Ali (tekong), Khairol Zaman Hamir Akhbar (killer) and Zuleffendi Sumari (feeder) lost 14-21, 13-21 to send shock waves around the Wolmyeong Arena in Gunsan City, South Korea yesterday.

In the other semi-final, Thailand who are the World Champions easily disposed Singapore 21-11, 21-11 in straight sets.

Malaysia came into the tournament on a high after having beaten Thailand to clinch the second Super Series title in Melaka, just two months ago.

Coach Abdul Talib Ahmad who was disappointed with the result and the performance of his boys was however, modest in his appraisal for the winners.

“The Koreans played well today but we will rise from this defeat,” he said in a statement issued by the organisers.

The women’s squad ended their campaign in fifth spot after beating Japan 2-0 in the classification match for 5th and 6th positions.

Siti Norzubaidah Che Wahab (tekong), Nor Farhana Ismail (feeder) and Elly Syahira Rosli (killer) beat Chinatsu (tekong), Mizuho (feeder) and Yuumi Kawamata (killer), 21-19, 21-12 in straight sets. South Korea and Thailand also meet in the women’s final. — Bernama