Belgium Survive Malaysia Fightback to Win 5-3 at Hockey World Cup 2026

Belgium secured a hard-fought 5-3 win over Malaysia in their FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 group-stage match at the Belfius Hockey Arena. The European side had to deal with a strong fightback from Malaysia but managed to hold on and take all three points from an entertaining contest.

Belgium started the match on the front foot but could not find the breakthrough in the opening quarter. Both teams remained goalless during the first 15 minutes, with Belgium creating pressure through penalty corners but failing to turn their chances into goals.

The hosts finally opened the scoring in the second quarter when Tom Boon found the back of the net in the 16th minute. Belgium quickly added another goal, with Boon striking again in the 20th minute to give his side a 2-0 advantage. Malaysia struggled to deal with Belgium’s attacking pressure as the home side went into the second half with a two-goal lead.

Malaysia finally got on the scoresheet in the 32nd minute when Rozemi Aiman pulled one back for his side. Belgium responded four minutes later, with Tom Boon scoring in the 36th minute to restore their two-goal advantage. Malaysia then struck again in the 37th minute through Jalil Marhan, making it 3-2 and setting up a tense finish.

The momentum then shifted again as both sides continued to attack. Thibeau Stockbroekx restored Belgium’s two-goal cushion in the 43rd minute, making it 4-2. Malaysia continued to push forward and kept Belgium under pressure as they looked for another way back into the match.

Boon added his fourth goal of the game in the 52nd minute, giving Belgium a 5-2 lead and putting the result beyond Malaysia’s reach. However, Malaysia continued to fight until the final whistle and Anuar Akhimullah scored in the 53rd minute to make it 5-3.

Belgium then managed to keep Malaysia at bay during the closing stages to secure a hard fought victory. Boon was the standout player for them, as he scored four stunning goals in the contest to keep his side ahead of Malaysia.

Despite the defeat, Malaysia showed plenty of character after falling 2-0 behind. Their three goals kept the contest alive deep into the match, but Belgium’s experience and attacking quality ultimately proved decisive.