ISLAMABAD: Pakistan pulled off a dramatic comeback to defeat Japan 3-2 on Monday in their second group-stage match of the FIH Nations Cup at the National Hockey Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, keeping their hopes alive in the race for qualification to the elite Hockey Pro League.
The game kicked off with a burst of energy as Pakistan’s Ghazanfar Ali struck first blood, sending the crowd into a frenzy with a swift goal in the opening quarter.
Yet, the Japanese side quickly retaliated, with Kazumasa levelling the score within a minute and Koji Yamasaki adding a swift follow-up strike to put Japan ahead 2-1 by the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter saw a tense midfield battle with both teams locked in defensive discipline, leaving the scoreboard untouched.
But the intensity exploded again in the third quarter when Pakistan’s vice-captain Rana Waheed Ashraf masterfully found the back of the net, reigniting hopes and levelling the match at 2-2.
In the nail-biting final quarter, Sufiyan Khan rose to the occasion, expertly converting a penalty corner to give Pakistan the lead – a lead they fiercely defended to seal a memorable 3-2 victory.
This win boosts Pakistan’s momentum ahead of their upcoming group clash against New Zealand on Wednesday at the same venue.
Recap: A Rollercoaster Draw Against Malaysia
Just a day earlier, Pakistan’s nerves were tested in a high-octane 3-3 draw against Malaysia. Despite commanding a 2-0 lead with early goals from Ahmed Nadeem and Abdul Rehman, Pakistan faced a spirited Malaysian comeback, with Fitri Saari and Syed Cholan levelling the match in the final quarter.
Rana Waheed Ashraf again showed his scoring prowess to briefly restore Pakistan’s lead, but Cholan’s second strike ensured the thrilling encounter ended all square.
Tournament Outlook and Stakes
The FIH Nations Cup is more than just a tournament; it’s a gateway to the elite FIH Hockey Pro League, with the winner earning promotion for the 2025–26 season.
The eight teams are split into two pools: Pool A features France, Korea, South Africa, and Wales, while Pool B sees Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, and Pakistan battling for supremacy.
Pakistan’s squad, led by captain Ammad Butt and vice-captain Rana Waheed, combines seasoned players and fresh talent eager to make their mark on this prestigious stage.
With the semifinals slated for June 20 and the finals on June 21, Pakistan will look to harness this momentum and carve their path toward promotion in this fiercely competitive tournament.
Pakistan Squad: Ammad Butt (captain), Rana Waheed (vice-captain), Muneer-ur-Rehman, Abdullah Ishtiaq, Mohammad Abdullah, Mohammad Sufyan Khan, Abdul Manan, Hamad Anjum, Arshad Liaquat, Moeen Shakeel, Zakrya Hayat, Ghazanfar Ali, Salman Razaq, Junaid Manzoor, Afraz Khan, Abdul Rehman, Ahmed Nadeem, Mohibullah.
