Lee Chong Wei upset world No.1 Lin Dan today but it proved futile as defending champions China crept past Malaysia and into the Thomas Cup final where they will face South Korea.

China fought back to win 3-2 while the Koreans, whose tactics of deliberately losing in the group rounds sparked controversy, stunned 13-time champions Indonesia 3-0 to make their first ever final. The odds were stacked against Malaysia, with China the dominant world force.

But the fans sensed an upset when world No.2 Chong Wei beat an out-of-sorts Lin in the first singles rubber. Chong Wei rattled through the first set in just 15 minutes before sealing the temperamental Chinese star’s fate 21-12, 21-14.

Order was restored by doubles world No.2 Cai Yun and Fu Haifeng who held their nerve against the spirited Koo Kien Keat and Tan Boon Heong to win 21-16, 21-17.

World No.3 Bao Chunlai beat Wong Choong Hann 21-18, 21-7. But Malaysia’s strong point is doubles and Muhammad Zakry Abdul Latif and Muhammad Fairuzizuan Muhammad Tazari forced the tie into a thrilling finale by beating Xie Zhongbo and Guo Zhendong.

Chen Jin stepped up to the mark to outgun Muhammad Hafiz Hashim and ensure they remain on track for a third straight title.

South Korea reinforced their emergence as a rising power with an unexpected victory over Indonesia.

Thomas Cup

China 3, Malaysia 2

Singles: Lee Chong Wei (MAS) bt Lin Dan (CHN) 21-12, 21-14; Bao Chunlai (CHN) bt Wong Choong Hann (MAS) 21-18 21-7; Chen Jin (CHN) bt Muhammed Hafiz Hashim (MAS) 21-12, 21-16.

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