WEB DESK: In a dramatic encounter at the Hockey World Cup Qualifying Round in Egypt, Pakistan secured their return to the global stage after an eight-year absence, defeating Japan 4-3 in a high-voltage semi-final. The victory, sealed by a remarkable comeback in the final quarter, sent the Pakistani contingent into rapturous celebrations.
The match was a tense affair, with Japan drawing first blood and maintaining pressure throughout. The Japanese team capitalized on their opportunities, notably scoring two goals in the third quarter to put Pakistan on the back foot. However, the Green Shirts displayed immense resilience and tactical discipline.
Trailing on the scoreboard, Pakistan launched a ferocious assault in the final quarter. The team’s persistence paid off spectacularly as they found the back of the net three times in the last 15 minutes to complete a stunning turnaround.
The goal-scoring duties were shared among the Pakistani players, highlighting a strong team effort. Abu Bakr Mahmood, Muhammad Imad, Sufyan Khan, and Afraz each contributed a goal to power their team to victory. Their clinical finishing in the dying minutes of the game proved to be the difference between the two sides.
With this semi-final win, Pakistan has not only booked their place in the final of the qualifying tournament but, more importantly, has secured a coveted spot in the Hockey World Cup for the first time since 2018.
