Horsens: Japan may be the favourites, but Malaysia are not about to roll over in their final Group B clash of the Uber Cup Finals 2026 here, tomorrow. National number one women's singles shuttler K. Letshanaa said the team was determined to ride on their growing momentum and give the six-time champions a run for their money when they meet in Forum Horsens.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Letshanaa expressed the team's resolve to fight hard on the court, emphasizing that winning or losing is secondary to their commitment to compete fiercely. "We win as a team, we lose as a team. Each player that's going to step on the court is going to fight, give 100 per cent...we won't let them think that we are an easy opponent to take," she stated in a post-match interview. Letshanaa, ranked world No. 34, had earlier led Malaysia to a strong start against South Africa, defeating world No. 160 Johanita Scholtz, 21-6, 21-10, in just 22 minutes.

A significant achievement for Malaysia is their long-awaited return to the quarter-finals after 16 years, which has boosted the squad's confidence. Malaysia's journey began with a narrow 3-2 victory over Turkiye and continued with a decisive 5-0 win against South Africa, securing their place in the quarter-finals.

Debutant Chong Jie Yu, a national women's doubles shuttler, shared her excitement about participating in the Uber Cup after a last-minute inclusion in the squad. She stepped in for Pearly Tan, the national number one women's doubles player, who withdrew due to a recurring back injury. The 20-year-old capped off a successful day for Malaysia by winning her doubles match against South Africa alongside partner Low Zi Yu, with scores of 21-12, 21-5 in 21 minutes.

As Malaysia prepares to face Japan, Zi Yu expressed her willingness to embrace the challenge with a straightforward approach, focusing on taking things step by step. The Uber Cup Finals 2026, which commenced on April 24, will continue until May 3.