Pakistan has grabbed semi-final spot in FIH Hockey Nations Cup, finishes second on goal average despite low points.
The Green Shirts, who had previously defeated Japan 3-2 and drawn 3-3 with hosts Malaysia, benefited from Malaysia’s close 2-1 victory over Japan on Tuesday.
The home team needed to win by at least two goals to move up in the standings, so the outcome was insufficient to pass Pakistan.
As a result, Pakistan finished the group stage second in their pool, behind France, and ahead of Malaysia, who had four points as well but a lower goal differential.
Now, the national team will play France in the semifinals.
Pakistan’s journey to the semifinals was far from simple. They lost a late equalizer to Malaysia in their first game, which ended in a 3–3 draw.
Both teams’ attacking intent was demonstrated during the game, but defensive weaknesses were also brought to light.
In a fast-paced match at the National Stadium on Monday, Pakistan defeated Japan 3-2 in their second match. In the first quarter, Ghazanfar Ali gave Pakistan the lead, but Japan quickly overcame with goals from Kazumasa Matsumoto and Koji Yamasaki to take a 2-1 lead.
Waheed Ashraf Rana, Pakistan’s vice captain, tied the score in the third quarter before Imad Butt’s team won with a well-played defense in the closing minutes.
The team’s next pool match is against New Zealand on Wednesday, June 18 at 3 p.m. PKT; however, the result will not impact Pakistan’s qualification for the semi-finals.
The elite FIH Hockey Pro League qualifies players through the FIH Hockey Nations Cup, which takes place from June 15 to June 21. Eight teams compete in the tournament, including the hosts, France, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, South Africa, Wales, and Malaysia.
