New Zealand vs Japan Sultan Johor Cup Hockey 2024
New Zealand will face Japan in their next match of the Sultan Johor Cup 2024, with both teams in vastly different situations. New Zealand, one of the only two unbeaten teams in the tournament so far, will be looking to strengthen their position as they push towards the final. On the other hand, Japan will aim to bounce back from a heavy loss and keep their hopes alive in this important fixture.
Match Timings:
- New Zealand Time: 9:15 PM
- Japan Time: 5:15 PM
Team Outlook:
New Zealand has been impressive throughout the tournament, maintaining an unbeaten streak. They started with a 3-2 victory over the hosts, Malaysia, and followed up with two hard-fought draws, 2-2 against Australia and 1-1 against Great Britain. Their defensive structure has been solid, with minimal goals conceded, making them one of the favorites to reach the final. A win against Japan would further solidify their position and bring them one step closer to a potential title shot.
Japan, on the other hand, has had a mixed run in the tournament so far. They began with a 4-2 loss to India, bounced back with an emphatic 4-1 win over Malaysia, but then suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat to Australia. Japan’s chances of reaching the final are slim, but they still have two games left to play, and they’ll be eager to put in a strong performance against New Zealand. This match is crucial if they hope to finish the tournament on a positive note.
Key Takeaways:
New Zealand’s unbeaten run and strong defensive organization make them the team to beat, and they will look to secure another win to bolster their chances of making the final. Japan, though having faced some setbacks, will come into this game with great spirit and the determination to turn things around, knowing that every game counts as the tournament progresses.
Where to Watch:
Catch the match live on RTM Malaysia. For real-time updates, scores, and live ball tracking, tune into our YouTube channel, SportsCursor.