ISLAMABAD: Pakistan pulled off a hard-earned 2-0 win over China in their second Pool A match in Oman on late Tuesday. In what was a closely fought match up it took until the third quarter for the deadlock to be broken when Abu Bakar Mehmood struck in the 42nd minute via a penalty corner.
With nine minutes to go, young Abdul Rehman scored another goal for Pakistan to make it 2-0.
China, however, stayed a place above Pakistan despite being equal on points in the pool standings — the latter’s goal difference putting them on slight disadvantage.
Great Britain, meanwhile, are placed top, owing to their big win over Pakistan. Malaysia, with a defeat in their only match so far, are bottom of the points table.
Three-time Olympic champions Pakistan have failed to qualify for the last two editions of the Games
In Group A Pakistan are placed with England, China and Malaysia. They will next face Malaysia on Thursday. Pakistan will have to finish in the top three in Oman to secure a place at Paris Olympic this summer.
