Asian Games 2026: Malaysia Grind Out Second Win Over Bangladesh

Malaysia's women's hockey team recorded their second win of the 2026 Asian Games, overcoming a below-par performance to beat Bangladesh 3-1 and keep their campaign firmly on track.

The result comes off the back of a dominant display in their previous outing, where Malaysia thrashed Kazakhstan 5-0. This time, however, world No. 85 Bangladesh gave the higher-ranked side a scare, taking a surprise lead through Kona Akter in the 25th minute.

Kumar's side shook off their sluggish start to hit back with three goals of their own, with Nuramirah Shakira Zulkifli netting twice — in the 40th and 59th minutes — either side of a strike from Zati Alyani Zubir in the 44th minute, securing the 3-1 victory.

Malaysia will face a far sterner test in their next outing, taking on defending champions and world No. 4 side China on Wednesday. Guided by Australian head coach Alyson Annan, China have been in ruthless form so far in the tournament, thrashing Bangladesh 13-0 and Taiwan 10-0 in their opening two matches.

China — also Paris 2024 Olympic silver medallists — will be determined to secure maximum points against Kumar's squad to confirm their place in the semi-finals. The Chinese side head into the clash full of confidence, having won the Asia Cup in Gongshu and hammered Malaysia 8-0 in the group stage of that tournament last year.

Credit Photo : AHF