China’s top badminton players Shi Yuqi and Li Shifeng have advanced to the semifinals of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Malaysia Open, setting up an exciting all-Chinese showdown.
In a thrilling quarterfinal match on Friday, World No. 1 Shi Yuqi overcame Chou Tien-chen of Chinese Taipei in three games. The opening game was tightly contested, with the score level at 10-all, but Shi pulled ahead with a streak of six consecutive points to secure a 21-16 win.
Chou fought back valiantly in the second game, coming from behind to clinch it 21-19, displaying remarkable determination as he edged out Shi in the final points. The decider saw Chou take an early 6-2 lead, but Shi regained his composure and surged ahead to win 21-17, sealing the match 2-1. This victory marks Shi’s fourth consecutive win over Chou.
Meanwhile, Li Shifeng defeated Chi Yu-yen, another shuttler from Chinese Taipei. Although Chi took the first game 21-14, Li bounced back to win the next two games 21-13 and 21-7, demonstrating his resilience and skill. The semifinal clash between Shi and Li promises to be a highlight of the tournament.
In the mixed doubles, China’s top seeds Feng Yanzhe and Huang Dongping secured their place in the semifinals by defeating the sixth-seeded duo from Chinese Taipei, Yang Po-Hsuan and Hu Ling Fang, with scores of 21-19 and 21-14. They will face Malaysia’s own Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei for a spot in the finals.
The upcoming matches are eagerly anticipated by badminton fans worldwide, as China’s elite shuttlers continue to showcase their dominance on the international stage.
Reference(s):
Chinese shuttlers maintain momentum in BWF Malaysia Open quarterfinals
cgtn.com
