Danes, Japan advance in Thomas Cup
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Danes, Japan advance in Thomas Cup

Denmark's Viktor Axelsen during the match against France's Toma Junior Popov.
Denmark's Viktor Axelsen during the match against France's Toma Junior Popov.

Powerhouses Denmark, Japan, China and Malaysia advanced to the quarter-finals of the Thomas Cup after securing their second wins in the group stage on Tuesday.

In Group B, Denmark and China sealed comfortable 5-0 wins against France and Algeria respectively at Muang Thong Thani's Impact Arena in Nonthaburi.

In Group D, Japan thrashed England 5-0 while Malaysia blanked the USA.

World No.1 and Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen of Denmark beat France's world No.26 Toma Junior Popov 21-8, 21-11.

Anders Antonsen defeated Christo Popov 21-12, 21-13 as the Danes went on to make a clean sweep of France.

Denmark will next meet China to determine Group B winners.

"After two matches, I have been able to adjust myself to the conditions at the venue," said Axelsen.

"We won the title in 2016 and we hope to win again this time."

Japan, led by Kento Momota, finished off England with the world No.2 defeating Toby Penty 21-18, 21-11 in the opening singles rubber.

"I felt a bit nervous because this was my first match here," Momota said.

"Japan want to win the title but there are several strong opponents including defending champions Indonesia and Denmark."

Meanwhile, Thailand were eliminated after losing 4-1 to Indonesia on Monday for their second defeat in as many matches.

The Thais, who were defeated 3-2 by South Korea in their opening match, will meet Singapore in their final Group A match today.

In the Uber Cup, Japan, led by top-ranked Akane Yamaguchi, beat France 5-0 to earn a place in the quarter-finals.

In the other Group A match, Indonesia beat Germany 5-0 to join the Japanese in the last eight.

The Thai women's team qualified for the quarter-finals on Monday after their 4-1 win against Malaysia.

Tickets are available at Thai Ticket Major outlets or www.thaiticketmajor.com.

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