Fajar/Rian Failed To Take Advantage Of The Situation While Leading At Critical Points

Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Rian Ardianto, must recognize the superiority of the Chinese pair, Liang Wei Yeng/Wang Chang, after a fierce battle in three sets with a score of 18-21, 21-17, and 17-21, Sunday 5 May in Chengdu. (photo: dock. intermediate)

JAKARTA The 2024 Thomas Cup final match between Indonesia and China is heating up. Anthony Sinisuka Ginting lost the men's singles match against Shi Yu Qi with a score of 17-21, 4-21. Meanwhile, Indonesia's first doubles pair, Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Rian Ardianto, had to admit the superiority of the Chinese pair, Liang Wei Kayu/Wang Chang, after a fierce battle in three sets with a score of 18-21, 21-17, and 17-21, Sunday 5 May in Chengdu.

Fajar/Rian admit their difficulties in taking advantage of the advantages in critical points in this final round. Although they were able to excel on several occasions, they were less able to maximize and take advantage of these advantages.

"Several times we have fought Liang/Wang, many times, especially in the last three meetings, we have always been superior but have not been able to take advantage of the advantage," Rian told reporters after the match.

They are more clever to get those points. At the time of winning, they continue to press and control the game," he added.

Nevertheless, Fajar/Rian were not affected by Anthony Sinisuka Ginting's defeat in the first match. They remain focused on their own matches and try to provide maximum resistance to the host pair.

"We personally only think about our party, because we want to focus (play), contribute points for the team, but we can't," Fajar said.

On the other hand, Liang Wei Yeng/Wang Chang are able to change the pattern of the game quickly, maintain pressure on Fajar/Rian, and control the game at critical points.

In terms of opponents, when they lead, it adds a little bit to their trust, the attacks are more fitting. They are extraordinary, the defense is good, the service and service receipts are bolder, attack more, and excel in the front balls," explained Fajar.

Apart from Fajar/Rian and Ginting, there are still three other representatives who defend Indonesia in this top round, namely Jonatan Christie who is competing and Chico Aura Dwi Wardoyo, while the double sector is represented by Bagas Maulana/Muhammad Shohibul Fikri.

China now leads 2-0 over Indonesia in the 2024 Thomas Cup final. Indonesia will continue to struggle to turn things around and win the title which is highly anticipated.