KUALA LUMPUR, June 24 — Malaysia gave Rio de Janeiro Olympic champions Argentina a tough fight before going down 1-2 in the semifinals of the World Hockey League Semifinal (WHL) at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in London, tonight.

Malaysia who were trailing Argentina 0-2 fought back to reduce the deficit through a penalty stroke but the Olympic champions held on book a place in the final and a spot in the World Hockey Final in India.

Though the squad coached by Stephen van Huizen had already achieved a historic feat by qualifying for the 2018 World Cup in India, today’s mission was to avenge the 2-5 defeat to the Argentinians in the preliminary stage and book a ticket to the World Hockey League final in India (December), but Argentina’s lightning quick attacks resulted in two quick goals before the boys got into the rhythm.

Malaysia, currently ranked 14th in the world, started well but missed a number of penalty corners which eventually proved costly as Lucas Vila struck from a penalty corner in the 13th minute to give his team the lead.

There was end to end stuff as both teams displayed a fast brand of attacking hockey that kept both coaches on their toes but the start of the second half saw Argentina double their advantage when Manuel Brunet tapped in an easy goal in the 34th minute.

However, four minutes later, Malaysia were awarded a penalty stroke after a video referral which Fitri Saari scored in the 38th minute to revive hopes of a fight back but the Argentinians held on to their fort to emerge victorious.

Malaysia will now meet either Holland or England for third placing tomorrow. — Bernama