After the shock departure of all but one Malaysian pair, hopes will be pinned on the Malaysian Women's Pair.
Lu Lan vs. Wang Chen
Lu Lan had to slog for almost an hour to beat gritty Dutch Judith. Wang Chen on the other hand, managed to beat Kaori Mori in 3 sets. Both appear not to be performing at their peak, and today's match will be interesting. I am inclined to give this close match to Wang Chen. I predict that Wang Chen will win this game in 3 tight sets.
Sudket/Saralee vs. Zhang/Xie
The Thai pair beat a Chinese combination today, who are always lethal. On the other hand, Zhang and Xie were also tested against a Korean pair. Koreans seem to do better in their home ground, which is understandable, as the maximum temperature is -4 degrees Celcius. I predict that the Thai pair will take this closely fought match.
Zhou Mi vs. Zhang Ning
A rematch of the veterans. Both have trained with each other, and have slept with each other (in the same room lah, what were you thinking :)). However, Zhou is now representing Hong Kong, who will not concede to China any day. I believe Zhou will win this encounter, as Zhang Ning is not in her peak form and appears to be going through a slump.
Wong Pei Tty/Chin Eei Hui vs. Lee Hyo Jung/Lee Kyung Won
Hopes are now on the Malaysian pair to deliver. The last time they entered a Semifinals was in last year's All England. This Korean pair will not be easy to shrug off. World number 4 and seeded third, they key is to pressure Hyo Jung into making mistakes, something she is very prone in doing. Tight match. I refuse to call this to prevent jinxing our sole survivors.
Bao Chunlai vs. Peter Gade
Gade, playing with a cracked rib, has been impressive so far. Bao on the other hand, had to slog for near an hour to beat lanky Malaysian veteran Wong Choong Hann. Peter Gade is on a roll, and I hope he spoils China's party by winning this title. Peter in 3 sets.
Lin Dan vs. Sony Dwi Kuncoro
A rematch of the World Championships Finals last year. This time, Lin Dan once again holds the upper hand, and will be the overwhelming favourite to claim the title after Lee retired because of fever. Lin Dan to win in 2 straightforward sets.
All the best to all players, and hopefully we won't continue our bad performance in Korea.
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