Malaysia thumped by Argentina in the Junior World Cup

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s chances of advancing to the quarter-finals were dented after suffering a 0-4 defeat to Argentina in their second Group A match of the Junior World Cup at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Wednesday (Dec 6).

Reigning champions Argentina went ahead in the 20th minute when Bautista Capurro scored a field goal.

Marco Aguirregomezcorta made it 2-0 eight minutes later from another field goal while Inaki Minadeo (44th-minute penalty corner) and Juan Fernandez (48th-minute field goal) completed the huge win for the South American side.

Malaysia, with goal difference not in their favour, must beat Australia in their final group match on Friday (Dec 8) to make it to the last eight.

In an earlier match, Australia thrashed Chile 7-1 and need only a draw against Malaysia to advance to the quarter-finals.

Argentina, who have six points after two matches, are through to the quarter-finals and are expected to complete the Group A fixtures with another victory over Chile on Friday.