World Cup 2025: Muhammad Soufi Revives World Cup Quarter-Final Hopes

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 6 (Bernama) -- National lawn bowls player, Muhammad Soufi Rusli, has 'revived his chances' of advancing to the men's singles quarter-finals at the 2025 World Bowls Championship after recording a crucial victory against New Zealand’s Keanu Darby, at the Juara Stadium in Bukit Kiara, today.

The 38-year-old player defeated Keanu 2-1 via a tie-break decision after both players were tied 1-1 in regulation play.

Having secured a commanding 14-0 victory in the first set, Muhammad Soufi however, lost 4-6 in the second, forcing the winner to be decided by a tie-break.

In the morning, Muhammad Soufi had lost his opening match to Australia's Aaron Teys 7-8, 4-7 thus ending the first day with one win and one loss.

Muhammad Soufi said the victory over Keanu was very important for him as a confidence booster after the morning's defeat.

"I needed a win for this second game because I lost to Australia this morning. So, whatever it took, I had to raise my spirits again. In this championship, if you lose too many games, it's very difficult to advance," he told reporters here today.

Muhammad Soufi, who is scheduled to face three more group stage matches tomorrow against South Africa, India, and Ireland, admitted that these encounters will be the determinant of his quarter-final chances.

He also stressed that mental strength will be the main differentiating factor leading up to the final three group matches.

"Right now, I don't want to think too far ahead. I want to focus on one game at a time because all the remaining matches will take place on the outdoor green. So, I have to properly study the line outside.

"Whether I like it or not, I have to be mentally and physically strong. Because all the players at this level are good; the only difference is how well we can control ourselves under pressure," he said.

For the record, only the top two players from each group qualify for the quarter-final stage in the singles event.

-- BERNAMA