China Beats Malaysia to Enter Asia Cup Badminton SemifinalsChina beat Malaysia on Friday to clinch the last spot in the Asia Cup Badminton semifinals during the third night of qualifiers at Singapore's National Stadium.In the semifinals, China will join Thailand, South Korea and defending Asia Cup champion Indonesia, who all qualified on Friday. China's Chen Hong and Malaysia's Ong Ewe Hock fought a grueling battle in the first singles bout, with Chen barely outclassing the Malaysian 15-8, 16-17 and 15-12. In the doubles, China's Zhang Jun and Zhang Wei trounced Chan Chong Ming and Chew Choon Eng 15-6 and 15-5. In the final singles match, China's Chen Yu took it easy and Malaysia's Wong Choon Han pummeled him 15-1 and 15-8. China was to meet the top-rated Indonesians on Saturday in the semifinals. Thailand was to play the South Koreans. In other matches Friday, Indonesia defeated South Korea 2-1 as raucous Indonesian fans roared and banged bongo drums. Thailand relaxed ahead of the semifinals, allowing Japan to take a 3-0 victory. Hong Kong defeated hosts Singapore 2-1. |
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