ISMAILIA, Egypt: In a nerve-wracking semi-final clash at the Suez Canal Authority (SCA) Hockey Stadium on Friday, Pakistan secured their berth in the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 by staging a dramatic comeback to defeat Japan 4–3.
The victory marks the former champions’ return to the prestigious tournament for the first time since 2022, ending a four-year absence from the global stage.
Early dominance and Japanese fightback
The Green Shirts came flying out of the blocks, displaying intent from the very first minute. Captain Ammad Butt set the tone for the high-stakes encounter, slotting home a sensational field goal in the ninth minute to give Pakistan an early advantage.
Pakistan maintained their slender lead throughout the opening quarter, looking comfortable in possession. However, Japan gradually grew into the game and found their equalizer in the 21st minute when Ryoma Ooka unleashed a powerful field goal past the Pakistani goalkeeper.
The second quarter ended with both teams locked at 1–1, setting the stage for a thrilling second half.
Japan take control before Pakistan’s heroic final quarter
The third quarter belonged entirely to Japan, as they turned the screws on the Pakistani defense. Shota Yamada restored Japan’s lead early in the period, and before Pakistan could catch their breath, Koji Yamasaki struck in quick succession to extend the advantage to 3–1.
With just 15 minutes remaining on the clock and a two-goal deficit to overcome, Pakistan’s hopes of qualification appeared to be fading. But what followed was a remarkable display of resilience and never-say-die attitude that has long defined Pakistani hockey.
Pakistan hockey team perform sajda and celebrate after qualifying for the FIH 2026 World Cup, dil khush kardia boys! 🇵🇰💚 pic.twitter.com/E1wRnJlu0F
— Muneeb Farrukh (@Muneeb313_) March 6, 2026
Three goals in five minutes seal dramatic comeback
The final quarter witnessed Pakistan at their absolute best. The Green Shirts launched wave after wave of attacks, and their pressure finally paid off in the 52nd minute when Abu Mahmood found the back of the net to reduce the deficit to 3–2.
Buoyed by the goal, Pakistan pushed forward with renewed vigor. Just three minutes later, Sufyan Khan produced a moment of brilliance to level the scores at 3–3, sending the Pakistani bench into raptures.
With the momentum firmly in their grasp, Pakistan completed their astonishing turnaround in the 57th minute when Afraz scored what proved to be the match-winner, giving his side a 4–3 lead with just three minutes remaining on the clock.
Nerves of steel in dying moments
The final minutes were nothing short of heart-stopping. Japan threw everything they had at the Pakistani defense, desperately searching for an equalizer that would take the game into extra time. However, the Green Shirts held their nerve superbly, defending with discipline and determination to see out the victory.
Perfect campaign continues
Notably, Friday’s victory marked Pakistan’s fourth consecutive win in the ongoing FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers. The Green Shirts have remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, capping off the group stage in imperious form.
Pakistan’s campaign began with a narrow but thrilling 5–4 victory over China, powered by a brace from Rana Waheed. They followed that up with a dominant 5–3 win against Malaysia, showcasing their attacking prowess. The group stage concluded with a resounding 4–2 triumph over Austria, with Abu Mahmood netting twice to take his goal tally to three in the tournament.
Final showdown against England awaits
Having secured their World Cup berth, Pakistan will now turn their attention to the final of the qualifying event, where they are scheduled to face England at the same venue on Saturday.
While qualification remains the primary achievement, the Green Shirts will be eager to maintain their unbeaten record and lift the trophy as perfect preparation for next year’s World Cup.
Pakistan’s return to the FIH Hockey World Cup will be welcomed by hockey fans across the nation, who have longed to see their beloved Green Shirts compete among the sport’s elite once again.
