KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia overcame Pakistan 3-2 to remain unbeaten in the Sultan of Johor Cup (SoJC) at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium in Johor today.
It was sweet revenge for the hosts, who lost twice to Pakistan in the Junior Asia Cup in Inner Mongolia, China last month.
With the win, Malaysia lead the standings from three wins in as many matches.
Malaysia, coached by Nor Saiful Zaini, are virtually assured of a place in the final despite having one match remaining against Canada on Friday.
Pakistan had an early opportunity to take the lead via a penalty stroke in the 12th minute, but goalkeeper Abid Amsyar Hanif saved Rana Waleed's flick.
Malaysia took the lead in the 28th minute through forward T. Naaveennash Panicker, before Adeel equalised from close range in the 36th minute.
The match turned in the 51st minute when Pakistan were reduced to 10 men after Waleed was shown a red card for striking a Malaysian player on the forehead with his stick.
Three minutes later, Pakistan lost another player when Mustafa Ghulam received a yellow card.
Malaysia fully exploited the situation to score two quick goals.
Safwan Salihe netted in the 55th minute before Naaveennash scored the winner two minutes later.
Pakistan finished the match down to eight players after Haider Asam received another yellow card in the 58th minute.
Malaysia were unable to convert any of their eight penalty corners.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd