India have made a flying start to their Asian Champions Trophy campaign, winning all three matches to book a semifinal berth. But the Harmanpreet Singh-led side can expect a sterner examination when they take on Asian Games silver medallists Malaysia in their fourth round-robin match on Sunday.

While India thrashed Malaysia 5-1 in the Asian Games final in Aichi-Nagoya last month, the Malaysians have traditionally been difficult opponents, capable of making life uncomfortable for the hosts. They will also be keen to settle scores after their defeat in the continental final.

India’s campaign so far has been largely comfortable. They began with a 13-0 demolition of Bangladesh before overcoming China 5-2 and Japan 4-1.

However, Friday’s win over Japan offered a reminder that there is little room for complacency against more organised opposition.

After two relatively straightforward outings against Bangladesh and China, India found it difficult to break down Japan’s disciplined defence.…