CHENNAI: Pakistan’s hockey team saw their Asian Champions Trophy journey come to an end without securing a spot in the top four for the first time, as they suffered a crushing 4-0 defeat against arch-rivals India in Chennai on Wednesday.
Pakistan’s hockey team failed for the first time to reach the semifinals since the inception of the Asian Champions Trophy. Pakistan, Japan, and Korea each had the same points, but the latter two advanced due to a superior goal difference.
Pakistan Hockey has failed to reach the semifinals since the inception of the Asian Champions Trophy. Pakistan, Japan, and Korea were same points, but the latter two advanced due to superior goal difference.
Despite a promising start, Pakistan struggled to contain India’s advances. Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh’s goal just before the end of the first quarter provided India with an early advantage.
As the second quarter, India asserted control, with the Indian skipper netting another goal from a penalty corner, doubling their lead.
India’s momentum carried into the third quarter, as Jugraj Singh notched yet another goal within six minutes, extending India’s lead threefold.
A final flourish came from India, with Akashdeep Singh adding a fourth goal to secure their 4-0 victory.
Pakistan Hockey Team winless streak against India continues
This defeat further extends the continuation of Pakistan’s winless streak against India, which has persisted for 16 matches since their victory in the 2016 South Asia Games.
Throughout the tournament, Pakistan managed to secure only one victory out of five matches. Their campaign began with a 3-1 loss to Malaysia, followed by consecutive draws against Korea and Japan.
The only wing for the Green Shirts emerged against China, who finished at the bottom of the points table with only one point.
Pakistan will compete against China for the fifth and sixth-place playoff scheduled for August 11.
