NAGOYA, Japan: Pakistan produced a dominant performance to defeat India 3-0 and secure a place in the semi-finals of the Asian Games men’s volleyball competition on Thursday.
Pakistan defeated their neighbours in straight sets at the Okazaki Chuo Sogo Park Gymnasium, winning 25-19, 25-23 and 25-18 to continue their medal challenge at the continental event.
The victory marked Pakistan’s second consecutive Asian Games win over India in volleyball and ended India’s unbeaten run in the tournament.
Murad Khan leads Pakistan attack
Murad Khan was the standout performer for Pakistan, scoring a match-high 22 points to lead the team’s attacking charge.
Usman Faryad Ali contributed nine points, while Mohammad Hamad and Musawer Khan added eight and seven respectively. Captain Murad Jehan also chipped in with four points.
Pakistan entered the quarter-final after finishing second in Pool A. They had defeated Kazakhstan 3-1 and Uzbekistan 3-0 before losing to hosts Japan in their final pool match.
India reached the knockout stage unbeaten after sweeping Vietnam and Hong Kong before overcoming Qatar in a five-set battle lasting three hours.
Pakistan take control from the start
Pakistan set the tone early, winning the opening set 25-19 in 23 minutes.
India struggled to contain Pakistan’s attacking play, with Pakistan recording a higher spike success rate during the opening set.
The second set proved to be the turning point as both teams fought closely.
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The scores remained level at 9-9 before Pakistan moved ahead, but India responded strongly and built a three-point lead at 16-13.
Pakistan showed composure under pressure, fighting back to level the score at 16-16 before India again pushed ahead.
The Green-shirts then produced a decisive comeback, scoring a three-point burst to make it 19-19 and eventually taking a 21-19 lead.
India saved one set point at 24-22, but Pakistan converted the next opportunity to win the set 25-23 after a 34-minute battle.
Pakistan complete commanding sweep
Pakistan carried their momentum into the third set, quickly establishing control.
They opened up a 14-9 advantage before extending the lead to 17-10 through strong attacking and defensive play.
India attempted a late comeback but Pakistan remained in control, reaching match point at 24-16.
Although India saved two match points, Pakistan closed out the contest on their third attempt, winning the final set 25-18 in 25 minutes.
Players from both teams exchanged handshakes at the net after the match.
With the victory, Pakistan advanced to the Asian Games volleyball semi-finals and kept their hopes alive for a medal finish.
