The National hockey squad playing in the World University Games (Universiade) beat South Africa 2-1 in their final group match at the Field Hockey Centre, here, to emerge runner-up in Group A behind Russia.

Despite the win, Malaysia will only play for the bronze medal against Germany while Russia move into the final after topping the group with an unbeaten record.

In Saturday's match, South Africa drew first blood through Brandon Panther's penalty corner strike in the 27th minute but five minutes later Malaysia were level on terms from yet another penalty corner taken by skipper Mohammad Razie Abdul Rahim.

The second half was an evenly contested affair until Ahmad Kazamirul Nasrudin struck Malaysia's second goal in the 52nd minute which proved to be the winner.

Coach Nor Azlan Bakar said he was satisfied with the performance of his boys but they (Players) would have to be on top of their game against the Germans in a match that would decide the winner of the bronze medal.

In another group match, Russia beat Poland 5-1 to maintain their 100 percent unbeaten record.

In the final, Russia will face France on Monday, after the match between Malaysia and Germany.

Meanwhile, at the Tennis Academy, Malaysia's mixed doubles pair Syed Mohamad Agil Syed Naquib/Jawairi';ah Noordin failed to make it to the semifinals after losing to Switzerland's Patrick Olivier Eichenberger/Lisa Sabino, 2-6, 3-6.