YOUNG TIGRESS TO FACE WOMEN’S JUNIOR WORLD CUP WITH 'NO SURRENDER’ SPIRIT

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 17 (Bernama) -- The national women’s junior hockey squad carry a 'no surrender' fighting spirit as they prepare for the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Women’s Junior World Cup (JWC) 2025 in Santiago, Chile, from Dec 1 to 13.

Head coach Lailin Abu Hassan acknowledged the tough challenge awaiting Malaysia in Group A, where they must face three world hockey powerhouses.

Malaysia are scheduled to open their campaign against Japan on Dec 2 before taking on the hosts two days later, followed by defending champions the Netherlands on Dec 6.

“Realistically, we have the defending champions the Netherlands, hosts Chile, and Japan, who finished seventh in the previous edition. So it is indeed very difficult for us to progress beyond the group stage.

“We will try to secure at least third place in the group. Given that our team lacks international competition experience, I am also targeting a finish within the top 20,” he said in a statement shared by the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) today.

Meanwhile, team manager Datuk Mohd Sayuti Abdul Samat said thorough preparations and exposure through recent matches against Jiangsu club from China have helped mature the playing style of the nation’s young players.

“I hope the players can showcase their best performance after undergoing long training sessions. The exposure against Jiangsu provided valuable experience that can help them in Santiago.

“I also hope the team can advance to the second round and beyond. Looking at the spirit they have shown, I believe they are capable,” he said.

The Young Tigress’ qualification for the prestigious tournament is particularly meaningful, as they earned their spot on merit for the first time in history after finishing fifth at the 2024 Women’s Junior Asia Cup.

-- BERNAMA