Indonesian badminton men’s doubles pair Muhammad Shohibul Fikri/Daniel Marthin secured their place in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Japan Open.
This certainty was obtained after Fikri/Daniel beat the Taiwanese pair Fang-Chih Lee/Fang-Jen Lee in the last 16 of the tournament held in Yokohama, Japan, Thursday, through two straight games 21-16 and 21-12.
“Alhamdulillah, we were able to win and avoid injury. Our game in the middle of the field also feels more cohesive. Communication on the field is also getting better,” said Fikri, quoted from a brief statement from PP PBSI, Thursday (22/8).
The new pair admitted that the second round match was not easy because their opponents were able to play well in anticipating the game pattern.
“The match earlier was not easy either. It must be admitted that the opponent also played well,” said Daniel.
“However, previously, I had studied what kind of game the opponent played. That way, when we were on the field, we were more prepared so we could win the match,” he added.
Also read: Bagas/Fikri Unable to Escape Pressure and Eliminated from Singapore Open
Fikri/Daniel then said that their increasingly solid defense and communication were the main keys to this victory.
“From the defensive side, we also feel more united. We are more solid. Also supported by the heavier shuttlecock character here, so it is more comfortable to play defensively,” said Daniel.
In the quarter-finals of the Japan Open, Friday (23/8), Fikri/Daniel will meet Chinese representatives Chen Bo Yang/Liu Yi.
“To face the Chinese pair in the last eight, I have met them before. So I have an idea. However, we still have to study the video recording of the match. We have to watch the opponent’s videos again,” said Fikri.
“Facing tomorrow’s match, we also have to be more prepared. Appear confident. No less important, communication on the field.
“continue to be maintained,” he continued. (Ant/Z-1)
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