Prague: The national men's and women's indoor hockey squads from Malaysia have embarked on a journey to Prague, Czech Republic, today to engage in a series of invitational tournaments and friendly matches. This European tour serves as a crucial component of their preparations for the upcoming 2025 SEA Games in Thailand.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) emphasized the importance of this tour in evaluating the squads' readiness after months of intensive training. It also aims to test various strategies and player combinations against high-caliber European clubs. Muhamad Amin Rahim, the coach of the men's squad, expressed his satisfaction with the team's current performance level and stressed the need to maintain this momentum leading up to the SEA Games.
The men's team will participate in nine matches, including five in an invitational tournament against clubs from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Germany, along with four friendly matches against Czech clubs. This tour provides an opportunity for the team to refine their tactical aspects before the biennial sports event. Their participation kicks off with the Pragochema Cup, Prague Indoor 2025 at Sportshall Sokol Kbely, beginning November 15.
On November 16, the tournament will feature placement and final matches, followed by friendly matches against Czech clubs Mnichovice, Slavia, Bohemians, and Litice from November 17 to 21.
The national women's indoor hockey squad will also participate in this European tour, playing ten matches in total. These include five in an invitational tournament with clubs from the Czech Republic and Germany, as well as five friendly matches against clubs from the Czech Republic and Ukraine. Head coach Rodzhanizam Mat Radzi highlighted the significance of this experience, enabling the players to sharpen their skills against world-class teams under real match conditions.
The women's team will commence their campaign against Tresenwalder (Germany), HC Bohemians Praha, and Praga (Czech Republic) on November 15-16. They will continue with friendly matches against Ukraine, Slavia, Bohemians, Pragovka, and Litice in the days following.