According to a few Malaysians spoken to last night, it’s hard to predict whether Lee Chong Wei will win in the semi-finals of the men’s singles badminton event at the Rio Olympics.

However, they are still standing behind the national hero.

This is in light of Lee’s recent victory over Taipei’s Chou Tien-chen to proceed to the semi-finals and face China’s Lin Dan.

The two-time Olympic silver medalist disposed of his opponent in dominating fashion in straight sets 21-9, 21-15 in just under 40 minutes.

“I dare not say, as both of them are good in their own way. It’s hard to imagine what will happen during the match. But I feel it will be Lee Chong Wei,” said businessman Mus Taqim, 25 (photo), when asked who would emerge victorious.

Mus and his friend were at Dataran Putrajaya, along with some 200 others who had gathered to watch and show their support for the Malaysian athletes competing in the Rio Olympics last night till early this morning.

The gathering was organised by the Youth and Sports Ministry and featured food trucks, performances as well as a huge screen for the supporters to watch.

Also present at the event was 11-year-old Mia Salissa from South Korea, who was with her family.

“I hope so. I hope that Lee Chong Wei will stand a chance to win the semi-finals,” Mia (seated left) said.

Civil servant Liey Azim, 34, on the other hand, had a different focus.

“We focus on our gold medal hope. Our mixed doubles,” she said.

She, however, remained hesitant to name a clear winner.

“Of course we expect Chong Wei but they each have their own strengths. It is based on their psychology now. Both of them are world champions,” Liey said.

While feelings remained high following Lee’s victory, spectators watched as Lin Dan struggled against India’s Srikanth Kidambi before emerging victorious.

Some said they are optimistic that Lee will beat Lin Dan in the coming men’s single semi-final.

“I see Lin Dan didn’t perform well. But not sure if it is his strategy to save his energy for the coming match,” said Moli Omar, 30, a technician.

“I am Malaysian. I expect Chong Wei to win in the semi-final and all the way to the final.

“His performance is not as good as last time and he almost lost to an Indian guy we barely know. I am sure he will be defeated by Chong Wei, too” said Alvin Low, 46, a contractor.