KUALA LUMPUR, Jan. 18 (Xinhua) -- Host players put on a strong performance here on Friday at the Malaysia Masters 2019, advancing to semifinals in four categories only missing the women's doubles.

In a highly charged game in men's singles, Malaysia's Liew Darren beat the World No. 2 Shi Yuqi of China 21-12, 16-21 and 21-11, pulling off a surprising victory.

"Before playing I did not think I could make it but I resolved to try my best. The second set was very difficult, I could not believe I beat a top player," said Liew.

"I am happy with my performance but I will take it match by match."

Liew will face South Korea's Son Wan-hon for the semifinals, who earlier beat Kidambi Srikanth of India in three sets.

Chinese reigning Olympic champion Chen Long handily beat his Indonesian opponent Anthony Sinisuka Ginting in 21-11, 22-20.

He will face Denmark's Viktor Axelsen, who gave the host a rare disappointment by beat Malaysian Lee Zii Jia 21-12, 22-20.

Overall the Malaysians had a good run at the quarterfinals. In women's singles, Goh Jin Wei beat China's He Bingjiao in two straight sets, to face next Ratchanok Intanon of Thailand, who upset world No. 1 Tai Tzu-Ying.

In men's doubles, Goh V Shem and Tan Wee Kiong were joined by two other Malaysian pairs in the semifinals, while Chan Peng Soon and Goh Liu Ying made it to the last four of the mixed doubles for Malaysia.

Japanese shuttlers dominated the women's doubles with three pairs in the semifinals.