Malaysia were outplayed by Japan 3-0 and made an early exit from the Asian Games badminton men’s team event at the Istora Senayan here today.

The Malaysians, seeded fifth, were no match for the pumped-up Japanese players. With their win, Japan, the third seeds, will advance to the quarterfinals where they will face either Korea or Thailand, who will battle later this evening. 

Malaysia were the bronze medalist four years ago in Incheon, South Korea.

World champion Kento Momota gave Japan a smashing start when he easily disposed of Liew Daren 21-13, 21-14.

Speaking to the media after his match, Momota praised the attacking game of his opponent but added that he defended well. Momota, who had defeated Liew Daren in the semi-finals of the world championships, said his focus was now on preparing for the next match.

But he went on to declare this: “We will win the gold medal”.

Japan picked up their second point when Takeshi Kamura-Keigo Sonoda turned in a fine performance against Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong. The higher ranked Japanese pair won 21-18, 21-18. It was all over for Malaysia after Kenta Nishimoto secured the third point after easing past up and coming singles player, Lee Zii Jia. Kenta won 21-17, 21-18.

For their efforts, Japan will next meet either Korea or Thailand, who are down to battle in the evening session today.

Now that they are out of the team event, Malaysia will have the next three days to regroup and focus on the individual event which begins on Thursday.

“As we expected, Japan was a strong side. We went in as the underdogs and tried our best today. Daren could not match Momota, he was good in all aspects. As for Zii Jia, he is beginning to show more composure in his game, he only needs to polish up on some tactical aspects of his game.”

Misbun said the team would take today’s results in their stride and use it to prepare for the individual event. “We must give our best for the individual competition.” 

Men’s Team

Japan bt Malaysia 3-0

Kento Momota bt Liew Daren 21-13, 21-14

Takeshi Kamura-Keigo Sonoda bt Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong 21-18, 21-18

Kenta Nishimoto bt Lee Zii Jia 21-18, 21-17

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