China Vs Malaysia Highlights, Super 4s Hockey Asia Cup 2025: Syed Cholan, Akhimullah Anuar Strike As MAS Beat CHN 2-0.
Venue: Rajgir Hockey Stadium, Bihar | Date: Wednesday, 3 September 2025
Defender Syed Syafiq Syed Cholan gave Malaysia the lead off his second penalty corner in the 45th minute. Malaysia kept up the pressure, and two minutes later, Akhimullah Anuar Esook scored from close range. It was Akhimullah’s 10 goals in four matches.
Malaysia Beat China
Malaysia got off to a winning start in the Super 4s stage of the Hockey Asia Cup 2025, defeating China 2-0 in Rajgir. Goals from Syed Cholan and Akhimullah Anuar sealed the win, giving Malaysia the perfect launchpad in their quest for a place in the final.
Match Summary
- The opening quarter was fiercely contested, with Malaysia pressing high and China relying on counterattacks. Both sides created chances but the scoreboard remained untouched.
- In the second quarter, both teams tightened defensively. The breakthrough finally came when Syed Cholan found the net, putting Malaysia 1-0 ahead.
- Momentum stayed with Malaysia as Akhimullah Anuar doubled the lead, leaving China chasing the game.
- Despite late pressure from China, Malaysia’s defence stood firm, with goalkeeper Hafizuddin Othman making crucial saves.
Tight Opening, Breakthrough in Second Quarter
The first quarter saw end-to-end hockey with both sides creating half-chances. Malaysia looked more threatening, but the Chinese defence stayed compact to deny early breakthroughs.
The deadlock was finally broken in the second quarter when Syed Cholan converted an opportunity to hand Malaysia the lead. His sharp strike gave Malaysia the momentum heading into the break.
Anuar Doubles Lead
In the third quarter, Akhimullah Anuar extended Malaysia’s advantage with a well-taken goal, putting China under immense pressure. Despite China’s attempts to mount a comeback in the final quarter, Malaysia’s backline, anchored by goalkeeper Hafizuddin Othman, stood resilient.
Final Whistle: Malaysia in Control
The 2-0 scoreline reflected Malaysia’s dominance in attack and composure in defence. With this victory, Malaysia have secured a valuable three points at the start of the Super 4s stage.
Key Highlights
- First Quarter: Ended 0-0, with both sides testing each other’s defence.
- Second Quarter: Syed Cholan opened the scoring, giving Malaysia the advantage.
- Third Quarter: Akhimullah Anuar extended the lead to 2-0.
- Final Quarter: China pushed hard but couldn’t break through Malaysia’s defence.
Starting XI
Malaysia: Syed Cholan, Marhan Jalil, Fitri Saari, Akhimullah Anuar, Shello Silverius, Faiz Jali, Hafizuddin Othman, Norsyafiq Sumantri, Aiman Rozemi, Muhajir Abdu Rauf, Amirul Azahar
China: Ao Xu, Chen Qijun, Chen Chengfu, Meng Yuanfeng, Chen Chongcong, Lu Yuanlin, Du Shihao, Meng Nan, Guo Xiaolong, Wang Caiyu, Chen Benhai
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What This Win Means
- Malaysia: With 3 points secured, Malaysia takes an early advantage in the Super 4s table.
- China: Will need to regroup quickly before their next fixture to stay in contention.
✅ Malaysia start strong with a 2-0 win.
⚡ Syed Cholan & Akhimullah Anuar the heroes.
🛡 Solid defensive display seals victory.
Malaysia’s 2-0 win over China in the opening Super 4s clash of the Hockey Asia Cup 2025 underlines their intent to challenge for the title. With goals from Syed Cholan and Akhimullah Anuar, coupled with a solid defensive display, the team showcased both attacking flair and composure under pressure. While Malaysia march ahead with momentum, China will need to regroup quickly to stay competitive in the Super 4s stage.
