KUALA LUMPUR: The Speedy Tigers' hopes of reaching the Nations Cup semi-finals took a blow following a 3-1 loss to France in a Group B match in Gniezno, Poland, on Monday.
World No. 13 Malaysia drew 4-4 with world No. 16 Pakistan in their opening match.
World No. 9 France, who beat Canada 4-0 in their opener, have booked a semi-final ticket.
France, preparing for the Paris Olympics next month, took the lead in the fifth minute through a penalty corner converted by Timothee Clement.
Veteran Faizal Saari levelled the score for Malaysia with a field goal in the 28th minute.
But France scored two more goals through Francois Goyet (43rd) and Etinne Tynevez (penalty stroke in the last minute).
National coach Sarjit Singh said overall his men played well and showed a high level of commitment.
"We were punished for small mistakes. There is still room for improvement for the players.
"We need to analyze the five penalty corners which we could not convert.
"In the next game we have no choice but to beat Canada. It is not impossible."
