Indonesian badminton heroes defeat South Korea to reach Thomas Cup final for first time in six years

Indonesia beat South Korea 3-1 on Friday to reach the finals of the Thomas Cup (also known as the World Men’s Team Championships) and raised hopes of their first victory in 14 years in a competition they once dominated.

Indonesia, who have won the men’s team tournament a record 13 times, proved too strong for South Korea, who stunned hosts China a day earlier.

Son Wan Ho, who beat world No. 1 Chen Long in a pulsating quarter-final, glided past Indonesia’s Jonatan Christie 21-10, 21-16 to put South Korea ahead.

But Indonesia rallied in the following match, with Mohammad Ahsan and Hendra Setiawan securing a 21-15, 21-12 win over Lee Yong Dae and Yoo Yeon Seong.

Anthony Ginting put South Korea on the brink with a 21-18, 21-18 victory over Lee Dong Keun before doubles pair Angga Pratama and Ricky Karanda Suwardi beat Kim Gi Jung and Kim Sa Rang 21-15, 21-18.

“We have good doubles and good singles, so why not?” said Ginting, when asked if Indonesia had a chance of winning the final.

Indonesia will contest their first Thomas Cup final since 2010 this Sunday against Denmark, who defeated Malaysia later on Friday.



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