Pakistan has secured a spot in the semi-finals of the FIH Hockey Nations Cup in Kuala Lumpur, advancing despite accumulating only four points from their group-stage matches, thanks to a superior goal average that placed them second in their pool.
The Green Shirts, who previously drew 3-3 with hosts Malaysia and defeated Japan 3-2, benefited from Malaysia’s narrow 2-1 victory over Japan on Tuesday. This result was not sufficient for the home side to surpass Pakistan in the standings, as they needed to win by at least two goals to advance.
Consequently, Pakistan finished the group stage in second place in their pool, behind France and ahead of Malaysia, who also had four points but an inferior goal difference. The national team is now set to face France in the semi-finals on Friday, June 21.
Pakistan’s journey to the semi-finals was far from easy. In their opening match, they settled for a 3-3 draw against Malaysia after conceding a late equalizer. The game showcased both teams’ attacking prowess but also highlighted defensive vulnerabilities.
In their second outing, Pakistan edged past Japan with a 3-2 victory in a high-tempo contest at the National Stadium on Monday. Ghazanfar Ali provided Pakistan with an early lead in the first quarter, but Japan quickly responded with goals from Kazumasa Matsumoto and Koji Yamasaki to take a 2-1 lead. Vice-captain Waheed Ashraf Rana leveled the score for Pakistan in the third quarter before Imad Butt’s side secured the win through disciplined defense in the final stages.
The team’s upcoming match against New Zealand on Wednesday, June 18, at 3 PM PKT will serve as their final pool match, though its outcome will not affect Pakistan’s confirmed semi-final qualification.
The FIH Hockey Nations Cup, running from June 15 to 21, serves as a crucial qualifying pathway for the elite FIH Hockey Pro League. The tournament features eight teams, including hosts Malaysia, France, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, South Africa, and Wales.
Earlier this month, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) announced a 20-member national squad for the event, with Imad Butt named captain and Waheed Ashraf Rana appointed vice-captain.
