XIAMEN, China, April 30 (Xinhua) -- The quarterfinal lineup for the Sudirman Cup was confirmed a round early after the second round of group matches concluded here on Tuesday.
Japan, Malaysia, Denmark and Indonesia secured their spots with two consecutive wins. They join China, Thailand, South Korea and Chinese Taipei, who had already advanced the previous day.
The eight teams will now compete in the final group matches to determine seeding for the knockout stage.
In a key Group D clash, Indonesia defeated India 4-1. After splitting the mixed doubles and women's singles matches, the tie hinged on a thrilling men's singles battle between Jonatan Christie and H.S. Prannoy. Christie rallied after dropping the first game 19-21, winning the next two 21-14, 21-12 to give Indonesia the lead. The team then swept the remaining matches.
Denmark blanked England 5-0 in the other Group D match and will face Indonesia next to decide the group winner.
In Group C, Japan cruised past France 5-0. On her birthday, Chiharu Shida partnered with Arisa Igarashi to win the women's doubles match 2-0.
"I'm very happy to win with my partner today - victory is the best birthday gift," Shida said.
Malaysia downed Australia 4-1 and will play Japan for the top spot in the group.
The final group matches begin Wednesday. ■
