AMSTERDAM: Four-time world champions Pakistan made a disastrous start to their FIH Hockey World Cup campaign, suffering a crushing 1-4 defeat at the hands of England in their opening Group D match played in Amsterdam.
The English side adopted an aggressive approach from the very beginning, dominating proceedings and scoring goals against Pakistan in all four quarters of the match. Pakistan’s lone consolation goal came in the final quarter through Afraz, but it was far too little to change the outcome of the one-sided contest.
This World Cup appearance marks Pakistan’s return to the global stage after an eight-year absence. The Green Shirts, who have won the prestigious tournament four times, find themselves in a challenging Group D alongside traditional rivals India and Wales, with Germany entering the competition as defending champions.
The heavy defeat raises immediate concerns about Pakistan’s prospects in the tournament, as they will need to quickly regroup and deliver improved performances in their remaining group matches to keep their knockout stage hopes alive.
