Moqi [China], September 16 (ANI): In a fiercely contested battle at the picturesque Moqi Hockey Training Base in China, Japan triumphed over Malaysia 4-2 in a dramatic shootout after a gripping 4-4 draw during regulation time, securing fifth place in the Asian Champions Trophy on Monday.

The hero of the day for Japan was their goalkeeper, Takumi Kitagawa, who delivered a stellar performance between the goalposts, ensuring that his team wrapped up their campaign on a high note in this prestigious event.

Goals came from various Japanese players during regulation time, with Kazumasa Matsumoto striking early in the 3rd and again in the 37th minute. Yuki Chiba added to the tally with a field goal in the 24th minute, while Seren Tanaka netted one in the 59th minute. During the shootout, Kosei Kawabe, Matsumoto, Tanaka, and Tsubasa Tanaka clinched the victory for Japan. For Malaysia, Akhimullah Anuar found the net in the 5th minute, and Faizal Saari showcased his skill with goals in the 21st and 32nd minutes, followed by Fitri Saari scoring in the 47th minute. In the shootout, Faizal Saari and Norsyafiq Sumantri were successful for Malaysia.

The match was tightly contested from start to finish. In the first quarter, Japan dominated ball possession and created three significant opportunities to score. This early aggression paid off when Matsumoto netted a field goal in the 3rd minute. However, Malaysia quickly leveled the score as Anuar capitalized on a penalty corner just two minutes later. Faizal Saari then elevated Malaysia to a 2-1 lead in the second quarter with a precise drag-flick in the 21st minute. Japan responded swiftly as Yuki Chiba exploited a lapse in the Malaysian defense, scoring a field goal in the 24th minute to even the score at 2-2.

After a brief ten-minute half-time break, Malaysia came back with renewed vigor. A strategic attack in the 32nd minute earned them a penalty corner, which Faizal Saari converted masterfully, marking his second goal of the game and giving Malaysia a 3-2 advantage. However, Japan was relentless; Matsumoto struck again five minutes later with an impressive field goal, bringing the score to 3-3.

The final quarter was just as intense. Fitri Saari gave Malaysia a temporary edge with a field goal in the 47th minute, making it 4-3. Yet, Japan’s determination shone through as Seren Tanaka equalized in the 59th minute, pushing the match into a thrilling shootout.

Takumi Kitagawa of Japan expressed his satisfaction post-match: “We are happy to end our campaign on a winning note. We never gave up till the end and wanted to win this game, giving it our all.” The match was broadcast live on Sony Sports Ten 1 in India. (ANI)