(Blibli Indonesia Open) Kevin/Marcus Obtained Ticket to the Semifinal

Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo/Marcus Fernaldi Gideon (Indonesia) blocking attacks.
Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo/Marcus Fernaldi Gideon (Indonesia) blocking attacks.
Indonesia Open ‐ Created by Imansyah Noorwihadi

Jakarta | The Indonesian Men’s Doubles Pair, Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo/Marcus Fernaldi Gideon successfully obtain the ticket to the semifinal of Blibli Indonesia Open 2019 BWF World Tour Super 1000 after beating the Chinese pair, Ou Xuan Yi/Zhang Nan in a two-set match of 21-12, 21-16 that was held in Istora Senayan, Jakarta on Friday (19/7).

By far, The Minions performance has yet to face meaningful challenge by any opponent that they have played against in this tournament. “Today we played really well and were able to take control of the game. Actually the opponent played well too, especially in the second set,” said Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo.

“They have a good speed, power and attack. But today we were a bit more ready than them. They played bravely in the second set. Maybe during the first set they were a bit nervous, but they really played better in the second set,” he added.

In the semifinal round of Blibli Indonesia Open 2019 BWF World Tour Super 1000, Kevin/Marcus will face yet another Chinese pair. After beating Ou/Zhang, The Minions will face Li Junhui/Liu Yuchen. By far, Kevin/Marcus has collected 8 victories out the last 10 meetings between these two pairs.

“In my opinion, the head-to-head record doesn’t affect much. Because when we are in court, we reset the record back to 0-0. We both know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Matches between us have always been fierce. Win or lose, the match would not be easy. What matters now is that we have to prepare to show our best performance,” he said.

On the other hand, similar comment was stated by Marcus Fernaldi Gideon who claims that the Li/Liu pair is not an easy opponent to be beaten. “They have quick attacks and they are powerful. Moreover, both of them are tall, so the overhead shots would be difficult, and those are things that we should anticipate in tomorrow’s encounter,” said Marcus.