Malaysia handed France test in Universiade badminton last-16 showdown
The national team, who topped Group D, will face Group C runners-up France at the Westenergie Sporthalle in Berlin, Germany on Sunday.
Victory over the French will see Malaysia progress to the quarter-finals, where they will meet either the United States or India.
The team, led by former national shuttler Jacky Kok advanced to the last 16 after a commanding 4-1 win over Canada.
Malaysia hope to improve on the two bronze medals won at the 2023 Russia Universiade and are hoping to secure at least a silver this time.
Meanwhile, national swimmer Khiew Hoe Yean booked his spot in the semi-finals of the men's 200m freestyle in Berlin after clocking 1:48.68s to finish third in Heat Six.
He had earlier won silver in the men's 400m freestyle on Thursday.
Hoe Yean will be joined by compatriot Arvin Shaun Singh Chahal, who qualified by finishing sixth in Heat Eight with a time of 1:49.66.
Both will compete in the semi-finals later on Saturday.
In taekwondo, the national men's poomsae trio of Randy Owen Augustine Linggi, Chin Ken Haw and Jason Loo finished sixth in the final, a commendable result in Malaysia's debut appearance in the event.
South Korea bagged the gold, with China taking silver and Taiwan settling for bronze.
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